Topic: Shura Council

Women's voting rights in Saudi Arabia: a blow to medieval brands of Islam

The Saudi king's decree allowing women to vote in local elections shows the influence of the Arab Spring – and decline of a radical, repressive version of Islam.

Saudi women to vote ...

... in meaningless elections. Still, the Saudi King's announcement today is a symbolic opening of more space for women in the Kingdom.

At the heart of the Arab revolts: a search for dignity

When Muammar Qaddafi recently asked Libyans to rely on his 'moral authority,' an ever more sophisticated Arab generation widely read the request as an insult to their intelligence.

Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah promises $36 billion in benefits

King Abdullah returned home today to a Saudi Arabia seemingly moored in the eye of the storm howling from Libya to Bahrain. But reformers are intensifying calls for political change.

In Saudi Arabia, reformers intensify calls for change

King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz is due to return tomorrow after three months away to a country where reformers inspired by Egypt are calling for greater transparency and equality.

President Hosni Mubarak's party tightens its grip on Egypt

President Hosni Mubarak won 74 of 88 seats in elections for the Shura Council, Egypt's upper house of parliament, amid accusations of fraud and state intimidation. The vote sets the scene for more important upcoming elections.

Muslim women could be the key to ending extremism

Muslim women are addressing issues in conflict zones. Pay attention.

Across Middle East, a sense of possibility after Obama speech

While they expect action, many warmed to words that bespoke a knowledge and appreciation of Islamic culture.

Saudis break taboo of opposing royals after soccer row

The incident highlights a shift from unquestioned deference toward the royal family.

Afghan voter registration marred

Insecurity and charges of fraud could hamper election officials' ability to ensure popular acceptance of next year's presidential poll results.

Saudi women speak publicly about divorce

At a divorce forum, the first of its kind, women debated reforms to ensure better legal protections for women and children.

Reporters on the Job

With pope's visit, Sarkozy challenges French secularism

French politicians don't talk about faith openly. But President Sarkozy wants a more open discussion of the role of religion.