‘Absher’ is an app that allows Saudi Arabian citizens to manage government related matters, such as applying for jobs, renewing licences, etc. Among these matters, men have the option to receive a notification, to alert them if a woman (whichever woman a Saudi man happens to be 'responsible for’) leaves a specified area or enters an airport. It doesn't stop there. A man literally, via the app, has the power to grant her 'permission’ to travel. Or, alternatively, keep her trapped with just a swipe of a finger. How lovely!

Believe it or not, whether this works for or against the women of Saudi is a debated matter. The argument against this app is obvious enough, as the oppression of the Saudi women is no secret. However, it's argued by some that the app makes it easier to give women their freedom. That many Saudi men don't grant/revoke the permission of women because they like the authority, but because they are required to do so by law. And this app makes it easier to avoid the tediousness of, one by one, officially permitting them to do things freely. Apparently, many men revoke permission, just to avoid the hassle that comes with saying yes. So they argue that removing the app altogether will only add to the restrictions that women face.

What do you think? Does this horrendous app actually work in favour of Saudi Arabian women, or against them?

Bonus:

Google have approved the app, as it does not break their rules in any way. Apple are still investigating. Are these companies at fault? Should they face any consequences for providing a platform for oppression? Should they be allowed to provide apps like this?

(Fun fact, that leaves me both laughing and crying.. I checked out the app. SO MANY 5* reviews and they're literally all from men. This whole thing is so cringeworthy 😭)