Empowering Saudi Women: The Waeya Initiative Combats Domestic Violence, Upholding Saudi Women's Rights
Highlights
Duration
2014- 2025
Number of Beneficiaries in 2024
- 5 rural villages
- Provided over 12,000 legal consultations
- Supported 1,300 legal cases
- Trained and qualified approximately 527 female lawyers
In partnership with
In Saudi Arabia, a groundbreaking effort known as the Waeya Initiative is revolutionizing legal education and support for women. This initiative not only spreads legal awareness but also provides a powerful voice for women facing violence, abuse, and other challenges. Waeya supports female lawyers in enhancing their skills and offers an interactive app for free legal consultations, making legal help accessible to everyone, even in remote villages.
Partnerships for Progress
The Waeya Initiative collaborates with key partners like the Faisal Al-Tayea law firm, Human Rights Commission, Ministry of Labor and Social Development, and the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), The General Administration for Protection from Domestic Violence, Asir Development Authority, Prince Sultan Humanitarian City. These partnerships amplify the initiative's impact, combining resources and expertise to promote legal education, support female lawyers, address violence and cyber-crimes, and improve women's quality of life.
Unified Efforts to promote legal awareness
In 2024, the Waeya team made significant strides. They managed over 150 cases with consultations exceeding 1,000 through various channels. This demonstrates their commitment to offering accessible legal support and empowering women to navigate legal challenges confidently In addition to providing Legal Clinic Workshop Program was implemented at both Princess Nourah University and Dar Al Uloom University, with the participation of a group of female and male lawyers. The program offered specialized training covering personal status laws, labor systems, criminal cases, in addition to issues related to violence and abuse.
Reaching Rural Communities
In collaboration between the Asir Development Authority and the Alwaleed Philanthropies, through Wayea 7 and 8 a specialized program was developed for rural villages suffering from increased crime, ignorance, and educational challenges. After exploratory tours and several meetings, a group of rural villages was identified for program implementation. The execution involved cooperation with female lawyers and legal specialists in the targeted villages. Additionally, a program was organized at an orphanage in Asir, which had witnessed violent incidents, based on the trust of the concerned authorities, resulting in the implementation of a comprehensive program covering psychological, social, and legal aspects.
Continuing the Journey
As Waeya continues its transformative journey, it stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, knowledge, and dedication in empowering Saudi women and fostering a more just and inclusive society.
Success Stories
Karima's Triumph: A Story of Empowerment and Liberation
Karima’s journey began when she made the courageous decision to seek refuge at the Guesthouse Community, desperate to escape the relentless verbal and physical violence inflicted upon her by her ex-husband. With two precious children to protect, Karima knew she had to find a way out.
Years passed as she sought solace within the walls of the Guesthouse, each day filled with uncertainty and fear. However, a glimmer of hope appeared when her case was referred to the esteemed lawyer's office. It was here that the transformative power of the Waeya initiative, supported by Alwaleed Philanthropies, came into play.
Through the unwavering support and guidance provided by the Waeya initiative, Karima's life took a remarkable turn. She gained the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the legal complexities of her situation. When her ex-husband discovered her presence at the Guesthouse, he demanded to visit. However, his encounters with Karima were filled with anger. But Karima stood firm, unwavering in her commitment to build a better life for herself and her children.
As she reflects upon her incredible transformation, Karima expresses her profound gratitude to God and the Waeya initiative. Their unwavering support and intervention have been instrumental in liberating her from the shackles of her past. She prays for the greatest of rewards to be bestowed upon those who played a part, no matter how small, in rescuing her from the depths of her previous suffering.
