A Saudi Arabian court sentenced a woman to 10 lashes for defying the nation’s ban on female drivers. She was found guilty of driving a car in Jeddah in July. Since the 1960′s, educational and occupational opportunities for Saudi woman have increased somewhat. However, the Saudi government continues to enforce a strict version of Sunni law known as Wahhābism. Under this version of Islamic law, women are not allowed to drive or travel without the permission of a male relative.

On September 25, Saudi King Abdullah announced that women will be permitted to vote and run as candidates in municipal (city) elections beginning in 2015. Saudi activists praised the decision as an important step in efforts to loosen restrictions on Saudi women. King Abdullah also announces that women will have the right to serve on the Shura Council, an advisory board that the king can consult. All members of the board are appointed by the government.

Additional World Book articles:

• Human rights
• Shari`ah
• Woman’s suffrage