Middle-east Arab News Opinion | Asharq Al-awsat

Media ID: 55310274
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File photo of first batch of female Pakistani paratroopers during training.

Pakistani army inducts first female paratroopers

by Umar Farouq | Jul 18, 2013 | World

Islamabad, Asharq Al-Awsat—The Pakistani military inducted the first batch of female paratroopers into its ranks after they completed their training at a military complex in Peshawar earlier this week. The Pakistani military issued a statement announcing that 24...

Media ID: 55303850
Caption:

In this Friday, May 14, 2010 photo, a Qatari woman covered from head to toe enjoys her early morning walk at the Doha Corniche in Qatar. Just a few years ago, Gulf Arab women usually only felt comfortable showing off their fashion sense at ladies-only parties or family gatherings. In public, at least in their home countries, the standard all-black abaya _ a simple floor-length covering and accompanying head scarf _ was the only culturally accepted option. But now a new generation of abaya designers are giving the traditional garment a twist with choices of fabric, designs and even some expensive bling to allow Gulf women a host of style options. (AP Photo/Kamran Jebreili)

Opinion: Gulf women are ready for greater social and political rights

by Munira Fakhro | May 31, 2013 | Debate

There have been a number of experiences concerning women’s rights in Arab and Muslim countries. Some of these countries, such as Turkey and Tunisia, have undergone a series of structural reforms that have resulted in increased equality. Meanwhile, others, such as...