A Fa?ade of Progress: Saudi Arabia's Underlying Challenges

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has embarked on an ambitious journey to reshape its image on the global stage, presenting itself as a modern, progressive nation through high-profile initiatives such as Vision 2030 and mega-projects like NEOM. However, beneath this glossy veneer lies a stark reality characterized by persistent poverty, high illiteracy rates, significant human rights violations, and troubling gaps in data transparency.

One of the most pressing issues in Saudi Arabia is poverty. While the government touts economic growth and development, a significant portion of the population remains impoverished. According to some estimates, nearly 20% of Saudis live below the poverty line, struggling to meet basic needs. The government’s failure to address this issue adequately raises questions about the authenticity of its progress. Instead of merely focusing on grandiose projects that capture international attention, there is an urgent need for policies that directly improve the living conditions of its citizens.

Illiteracy is another significant concern. Despite the country’s vast resources, Saudi Arabia faces high rates of illiteracy, particularly among women. As of recent statistics, approximately 6% of the population remains illiterate, with women disproportionately affected. This educational gap undermines the kingdom’s ability to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of sustaining its ambitious economic plans. While initiatives aimed at improving education are in place, the progress has been slow, and the quality of education often falls short of global standards.

Moreover, human rights violations continue to mar Saudi Arabia’s reputation. The assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018 highlighted the kingdom's oppressive nature and lack of accountability. Khashoggi’s brutal murder, allegedly ordered by high-ranking officials, sent shockwaves through the international community, raising alarms about freedom of expression and the safety of dissidents. Despite widespread condemnation, the Saudi government has largely evaded meaningful repercussions, allowing a culture of impunity to flourish. This situation is emblematic of a broader pattern in which dissent is suppressed, and voices calling for reform are silenced.

In addition to these systemic issues, the lack of reliable data and transparency significantly hampers efforts to assess the true state of affairs in Saudi Arabia. The government often provides limited access to information, creating a murky picture of economic, social, and political realities. This opacity makes it difficult for both citizens and international observers to hold the government accountable for its policies and initiatives. The absence of comprehensive data also impedes effective policymaking, as decisions are often based on incomplete or biased information.

The juxtaposition of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious projects against this backdrop of poverty, illiteracy, and human rights violations raises critical questions about the kingdom's commitment to genuine reform. While flashy initiatives may draw attention and investment, true progress must be measured by the improvement of everyday life for ordinary Saudis. The kingdom’s leadership must prioritize addressing fundamental issues rather than merely polishing its image for the global community.

While Saudi Arabia seeks to present itself as a modern and progressive nation through grand projects, the reality is far more complex. Addressing poverty, illiteracy, human rights violations, and the lack of transparent data are essential steps toward achieving meaningful change. Only by confronting these challenges head-on can Saudi Arabia hope to fulfill its vision for the future and earn the respect of the international community.