UN Member States Agree to ‘Historic’ Statement on Women

Muslim and western nations overcame deep divisions to agree a historic United Nations declaration setting out a code of conduct for combating violence against women. Iran, Libya, Sudan and other Muslim nations agreed to language stating that violence against women and girls could not be justified by “any custom, tradition or religious consideration.” Western nations, particularly from … Read more

Does Islam Need Feminism?

Amani Alkhat wonders if Islam and feminism can work together. Feminism. In many Muslim communities, the word rolls off the tongue with a bitter aftertaste. And amongst the women of these communities, a stigma surrounds the movement with an especially unique reception. My issue with feminism is that its movement has been dominated by white, middle-class … Read more

Zaha Hadid, the “Lady Gaga” of architecture

She has broken a multitude of “glass ceilings”, thanks in part to her inclusive, supportive upbringing. Raquel Evita Saraswati tells us more about the iconic architect. The London Olympics earlier this year brought the role of Muslim women in sport to the forefront of public discussion. Egypt sent more Muslim women than any other Muslim-majority country, while … Read more

Scholar spotlight: Dr Zainab Alwani, reclaiming gender equality in Islamic scholarship

This prominent American scholar, academic and activist often finds herself to be the only Muslim female scholar on stage at conferences. She spoke to Omar Shahid. The idea that Islam oppresses women has been allowed to flourish right across the world. Islamophobes, right-wing commentators and neo-conservatives will use it as a platform to launch scathing attacks … Read more