Women's Economic Empowerment between Sharīʿah and International Conventions

تمكين المرأة اقتصاديا بين الشريعة والإتفاقيات الدولية

Abstract

This study examines the concept of women's economic empowerment from the perspective of Islamic Sharīʿah and international conventions, with particular attention to the areas of convergence and divergence between the two frameworks. It explores the role of Islam in promoting the economic empowerment of Muslim women through a balanced approach that recognizes their rights, responsibilities, and distinct nature, while ensuring justice and dignity.

The study further analyzes the impact of international agreements and conferences concerning women's rights and economic participation, highlighting the extent to which such instruments accommodate—or overlook—the religious, social, and cultural particularities of Muslim societies. It also investigates the influence of contemporary feminist movements on perceptions of women's rights within Islamic communities.

Adopting descriptive and analytical methodologies, the research compares selected provisions of international conventions with national legislations inspired by Islamic principles regarding the protection and economic participation of women. The study argues that many of the challenges faced by Muslim women today stem not from the principles of Sharīʿah itself, but from inadequate awareness and implementation of the rights and protections granted by Islam. It concludes by emphasizing the need to strengthen societal awareness of Islamic teachings concerning women's economic rights while critically engaging with international frameworks in a manner that preserves the ethical and legal foundations of Muslim societies.