The enfranchisement of women presents a significant challenge to Kuwait"s traditional system of politics and tribe. This step in the democratisation process is, however, more likely to strengthen, rather than weaken, state control over domestic politics. Based on first-hand research and an extensive analysis of gender and politics spanning three decades, al-Mughni demonstrates how the relationship between women and the state has come to influence and shape Kuwaiti society and national politics. This revised edition has been updated in light of the major political, social and cultural changes that have resulted from the Iraqi invasion and the ensuing Gulf War. Changes which have reshaped the course of the women"s movement over the last decade. It includes a new introduction as well as two new chapters on post-war feminist activism, the nature of the relationship between women and the state, the role of gender in Islamism and cultural politics and women"s role during the Iraqi occupation. The diversity, dynamism and activism of Kuwaiti women are well represented throughout this study of a uniquely fascinating nation and people.