HAYAT ARSLAN STARTS WOMEN'S GROUP

June 22, 2004 – (Daily Star) Princess Hayat Arslan started Monday the Committee for Promoting Women's Role in National Decision-Making to boost women's active participation in political life.

The ceremony, held at the UNESCO Palace, was attended by the committee members, feminists and members of the media.

Arslan said women can no longer be marginalized in political life, adding that: "It will not be possible to form a Cabinet without one female minister or several anymore."

She said the committee has pledged to have a quota for women's seats at Parliament approved, adding that awareness programs will be conducted for young people.

"Let's choose competent women to get used to women's presence and role as active human beings and as active partners in political life," Arslan said.

Ahlam Beydoun said the committee has already played a role in supporting women in municipal elections through intensive meetings with people and figures and through preparing petitions calling for the support of women's role.

From: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/article.asp?edition_ID=1&article_ID=5506&categ_id=2