FOCUS ON BAHRAIN'S WOMEN

MANAMA: Bahraini women take centre stage today as the world celebrates female achievements. Women have played a major role in the country's democratic development and paved the way for young women to reach decision-making positions in Bahrain, said Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty King Hamad and Supreme Council for Women (SCW) President. "As a result of the various empowerment programmes provided, women today are more qualified to be active participants in the democratic process," she said. "More women have also succeeded in attaining decision-making positions in both the public and private sector and are considered today as main partners in the development of the state." Thousands of events are expected to take off today across the globe to mark International Women's Day. Meanwhile, in his message to mark the occasion, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said: "Gender equality and the empowerment of women are gaining ground worldwide. "There are more women heads of state or government than ever, and the highest proportion of women serving as government ministers. Women are exercising ever greater influence in business. "More girls are going to school and are growing up healthier and better equipped to realise their potential." However, there is a long way to go before women and girls can be said to enjoy fundamental rights, freedom and dignity, he cautioned.