Women's rights in the Middle East and North Africa

Introduction: Women's rights, specifically in countries located in the Middle East and North Africa, are notoriously known for restricting women's rights. This oppressive regime against women is influenced by societal norms within these countries and radical ideologies that have spiraled out of control. Specifically, under Customary and Islamic law which includes policies that enforce women to obey in a certain way. However, has any progress been made and what are solutions to this crisis?

More about these laws: Customary law refers to traditionalist practices that circulate from different generations. Customary law tends to be less relative to Western legal policies and refers to traditions that have been practiced which to a certain extent may be outdated or problematic. In many Middle Eastern and North African countries Islamic law dictates many policies and orders. Islamic law is the legal system that is solely based on interpretations of Sharia. According to https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/understanding-sharia-intersection-islam-and-law, Sharia translates to the "correct path" in Arabic. Sharia is based on Islamic books like the Quran and the Hadith. Sharia sets the "guide" to grow close to God while living morally according to Islam. Countries that practice Sharia include, Sudan, Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, and many others. Some of these countries are mixed but most of their policies are based on Sharia.

Sharia Law on Women: Sharia law has a large impact on women's rights and puts strict limitations on their personal freedoms. Certain policies on how they can dress, their work abilities, and other legal rights. This is a major issue and has been for many years. Although the Quran expresses that men and women are morally equal, radicalism has led to irrational interpretations of this.

Are there solutions: This topic is complicated however, in order to make a difference it is most important to first educate yourself. Learning about women's rights in these countries and what Islamic or Customary law is will help you get a better understanding of what this all means. Speaking about this and spreading awareness on this issue is the second step. Participating in demonstrations and advocating against these human right violations is key to making a difference.

Must Act Global Advocates: Women's rights, especially in countries where they are restricted most is a major issue that Must Act Global passionately addresses. We encourage discussing this issue and contributing to organizations that fight for its justice.

Organizations to Support:

- The Arab Women's Solidarity Association (AWSA)

- The Women's Empowerment and Development Group (WEDG) 

- The Lebanese Council of Women (LCW)

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