BBC NEWS | Middle East | Kuwaiti women win right to vote

Many of these had argued that Islamic law prohibited women from positions of leadership.

The amendment requires women voters and candidates to abide by Islamic law.

Correspondents say this is an attempt by the ruling family to reassure Islamists. But it could also place restrictions on women campaigners.

Makes it sound like a step sideways instead of a step forward. But even a step sideways can be a good thing in the larger scope of things.