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Rola DashtiKuwaiti female politician, economist
Date of Birth: 01.01.1964
Country:  Kuwait |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Career in Economics and Development
- Political Breakthrough: Championing Women's Empowerment
- Ministerial Tenure: Steering Planning and Development
- Global Leadership at ESCWA
- Recognition and Legacy
Early Life and Education
Rola Dashti: Trailblazing Economist and PoliticianBorn in 1964 into a prominent Kuwaiti family, Rola Dashti inherited a commitment to public service from her father, a former member of Kuwait's National Assembly.
Determined to pursue a higher education, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics from California State University, Chico, in 1984. She continued her studies at California State University, Sacramento, obtaining a Master's degree in Economics and Finance in 1985. In 1993, Dashti capped off her academic achievements with a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in Population Dynamics from Johns Hopkins University.
Career in Economics and Development
Economic Expertise and AdvocacyDashti applied her economic knowledge to various positions in research institutions, including the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research. She also gained valuable experience in finance and development, working for institutions such as the National Bank of Kuwait and the World Bank.
Political Breakthrough: Championing Women's Empowerment
Breaking Barriers in Kuwait's Political ArenaKuwait's political landscape underwent a significant transformation in 2015, when women gained the right to vote and stand for election. Dashti played a pivotal role in advocating for this legislation, paving the way for herself and future female candidates.
In 2009, Dashti ran for a seat in the National Assembly, making history as one of the first four women elected. Her 7666 votes secured her victory, demonstrating the overwhelming support she had garnered.
Ministerial Tenure: Steering Planning and Development
From 2012 to 2014, Dashti served as Minister for Planning and Development, as well as Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, in Kuwait's 31st Cabinet. She oversaw key national development projects, advocating for sustainable growth and economic diversification.
Global Leadership at ESCWA
United Nations Appointment: Shaping Western Asia's FutureIn 2019, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres appointed Dashti as the Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA). As the head of this UN regional commission, she assumed responsibility for promoting economic cooperation, social development, and gender equality in the Western Asia region.
Recognition and Legacy
Accolades and Honors for Outstanding ContributionsDashti's unwavering dedication to women's empowerment, economic development, and regional cooperation has been widely recognized. In 2009, she received the "North-South Prize" from the North-South Center, alongside renowned figures like Mikhail Gorbachev.
Today, Rola Dashti continues to inspire future generations of women leaders and advocates for a more just and equitable society. Her legacy as a trailblazer in politics, economics, and gender equality will undoubtedly endure for many years to come.
