Women in Egypt: Islamic Rights Versus Cultural Practice
Author(s)
El-Safty, Madiha
Abstract
In order to understand the predicament of Muslim women in Egypt, it is necessary to look beyond religion to the strong social and cultural forces, which shape their position in society. Islam is often held responsible for the inequitable and sometimes violent treatment of women in Egypt. However, Islam is unjustifiably blamed for such discriminatory practices against women. The Islamic rights granted to women are, for the most part, just. Women have gained more rights over the years; nevertheless, they continue to suffer, as these rights are often not put into practice, because of social and cultural influences. The Islamic religion is all too often misunderstood and held accountable for the unacceptable treatment of women; whereas in reality, cultural traditions have led to this inequity.
