Comparative Analysis of Women's Political Rights in Islamic Civilization and International Documents

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Ph.D Student, Department of Law, Research Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Law, Sanandaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kurdistan, Iran

Abstract

Islamic civilization adopts a universal approach to women's rights and has consistently recognized the importance of women throughout history. From a time when women were denied even the most basic rights to the present day, when numerous international documents have been established to promote and protect women's rights, this commitment remains evident. Accordingly, the purpose of this study is to conduct a comparative analysis of women's political rights within Islamic civilization and international documents. It seeks to answer the question of whether women's political rights have been disrespected in Islam when compared to international standards. The research method employed in this study is qualitative and documentary. The researcher examines and analyzes credible research documents, including verses from the Holy Quran, narrations, and hadiths. Based on these sources, along with relevant interpretations, the study presents its findings and interpretations. The results indicate that Islamic civilization, recognized as one of the oldest and most reliable frameworks, has consistently maintained a positive perspective on the realization of women's rights across various domains, particularly in the political arena. A comparative study of women’s political rights in Islamic law and international documents reveals that both serve as sources of these rights; however, there are notable differences in their specifics and implementation. Islam grants women the right to engage in political decision-making as well as to participate in local and national elections. The verses of the Quran and the narrations of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) affirm that Muslim women have both the right and the duty to engage in societal and communal affairs. Additionally, women's political rights are recognized in various international documents. The United Nations Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights affirm that women's political rights are fundamental human rights. These documents guarantee women the right to vote, the right to participate in elections, and the right to engage in political decision-making processes.
 

Keywords

Main Subjects


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