Human Rights Law in Egypt and Malaysia: Freedom of Religion and Expression, Volume 1

The discourse surrounding freedom of religion and expression in Muslim-majority countries is  complex and multifaceted, shaped by a myriad of factors including cultural, political, and legal dynamics. This volume examines the complex interplay of these factors within the contexts of Egypt and Malaysia, offering valuable insights into the challenges and advancements in safeguarding these fundamental freedoms. From the diverse interpretations of Islamic principles to the varying legal frameworks and the influence of global events, such as geopolitical conflicts and terrorism, on human rights dynamics, this volume provides a comprehensive exploration of the complexities involved. Moreover, it delves into the historical, social, and political contexts that shape the protection and limitation of these freedoms, offering a nuanced understanding of the evolving discourse surrounding human rights in Muslim-majority countries. Through comparative analyses and discussions on the role of civil society and advocacy groups, this volume serves as an invaluable resource for scholars, policymakers, and activists seeking to deepen their understanding of the multifaceted realm of freedom of religion and expression in Egypt and Malaysia.

“Asif Mohiuddin's two-volume work titled Human Rights Law in Egypt and Malaysia with a focus on freedom of religion and expression is a tour de force coverage of significant legal, political, and ethical developments in two major Muslim societies. These volumes are veritable source books on these very modern topics. Egypt represents a major current in contemporary Arab thought, and Malaysia plays a pioneering role in Southeast Asia. Yet both nations contribute significantly to global Islamic thought. Therefore, these volumes are imperative for libraries, lawyers, experts, and anyone interested in human rights.” (Ebrahim Moosa, Mirza Family Professor of Islamic Thought & Muslim Societies, Keough School of Global Affairs, University of Notre Dame, USA)

“Asif Mohiuddin’s “Human Rights Law in Egypt and Malaysia: Freedom of Religion and Expression” offers a profound examination of the complex relationship between human rights, religion and governance in Egypt and Malaysia. Through detailed analysis of legal frameworks and societal dynamics, Mohiuddin navigates the complexities of safeguarding freedoms amidst diverse cultural contexts. His comparative approach sheds light on both shared challenges and distinct strategies, making this book essential reading for scholars, policymakers, and activists committed to advancing human rights globally.” (Ismail Fajrie Alatas, Associate Professor, New York University, USA)

“This volume provides a deep and insightful examination of the complex challenges surrounding freedom of religion and expression in Egypt and Malaysia. Mohiuddin delves into the multifaceted obstacles confronting diverse communities in their pursuit of these fundamental rights. He sheds light on the legal constraints and cultural barriers that impede the full realisation of religious freedom and expression in these contexts. Mohiuddin’s work offers invaluable insights into the complexities of navigating religious freedom and expression within societies where the majority often wields significant influence over the direction of civilisational changes. He provides a nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by individuals and communities in practicing and expressing their beliefs openly. This volume serves as an indispensable resource for policymakers, scholars, activists and individuals alike who seek to understand and address the constraints on freedom of religion and expression.” (Mariusz Maslak, Professor, Crackow University of Technology, Poland)

“This book offers a compelling analysis of human rights development in Egypt and Malaysia, focusing on the constitutional status of freedom of religion and expression. By examining the unique legal, cultural and historical contexts of these two nations, it reveals significant disparities in the practical implementation and enforcement of these universally acknowledged freedoms. The comparative analysis not only highlights the complexities of human rights laws within diverse cultural and legal landscapes but also provides invaluable insights for policymakers, NGOs and legal experts.” (Ramazan Bicer, Professor, Sakarya University, Turkey)
 

Asif Mohiuddin is a Lecturer in the Department of Moral Studies, Civics and Character Building at the Faculty of Human Sciences, Sultan Idris Education University, Malaysia. Previously, he worked as a Postdoctoral Academic Officer at the same institution. He is the author of the book “Navigating Religious Authority in Muslim Societies: Islamist Movements and the Challenge of Globalisation” (Palgrave Macmillan, 2023). From 2021 to 2022, he served as a Post-Doctoral Fellow in the Faculty of Theology at Sakarya University, Turkey. Before joining Sakarya University, he was a Lecturer in the Department of Higher Education, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He earned his PhD from the University of Kashmir in 2018. His research interests include globalisation and Islam, the intersection between politics and religion in the Middle East, human rights law, Islam and the West, and Muslim minorities in multicultural societies (Europe and South Asia).