خواتین کے حقوق و کردار سے متعلق اسلامی تعلیمات اور اقوام متحدہ کے معیارات کا تحقیقی جائزہ

A Research Review of Islamic Teachings on Women's Rights and Roles and the Standards of the United Nations

Abstract

This research paper presents a comprehensive comparative review of Islamic teachings on women's rights and roles alongside the standards established by the United Nations, particularly the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). The study examines the Islamic perspective on women's rights as derived from the Qur'an, Sunnah, and classical Islamic jurisprudence, covering fundamental areas such as human dignity, education, economic rights (ownership, inheritance, dowry), marriage and divorce, khul', 'iddah, social protection, and modesty (hijab). The research then analyzes the UN framework, focusing on CEDAW, the Beijing Declaration, and SDG Goal 5, which emphasize absolute gender equality, non-discrimination, and women's empowerment across all spheres of life. The study identifies significant points of convergence between the two systems, including the right to education, healthcare, property ownership, protection from violence, and free consent in marriage. However, it also highlights key areas of divergence, including inheritance shares (half of a male's share in default cases), qiwāmah (male guardianship), nationality rights, divorce procedures, and the interpretation of modesty codes. The research examines implementation challenges in Muslim societies, including ideological resistance, political instability, deep-rooted cultural practices, economic constraints, and low literacy rates. Case studies from Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, and Malaysia illustrate diverse approaches to reform. The study concludes that while fundamental harmony exists regarding core human rights, differences arise primarily from interpretive frameworks and contextual applications. The research recommends internal ijtihad within Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah, legal reforms, enhanced education and awareness, economic empowerment of women, and flexible international dialogue that respects religious and cultural contexts.