Mr. Sander van Niekerk, The Hague Should be applauded for his response

Empowering Saudi Women?
[cd editor: there was some confusion in Mr. Sander van Niekerk rsponse in CB earlier, our response was contrary to the point Mr van Nieker was making. apologies – he’s right on target]

Published: September 26, 2011 – NYT

Regarding the news article “Saudi women gain right to vote” (Sept. 26): Despite tremendous opposition to women’s freedom in Saudi Arabia, King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia has taken a bold step. He should be applauded.

[Mr van Nieker Response – see below]

Human rights activists and politicians should not be impressed by the Saudi king’s granting a few more rights to women. Doing so is like death penalty opponents welcoming the replacement of the electric chair with lethal injection. Much as executions still take place, Saudi women are still grossly oppressed. Now more than ever the international community should pressure Riyadh to guarantee Saudi citizens access to the full spectrum of human rights.

Sander van Niekerk, The Hague …source