Human Rights Law in Egypt and Malaysia: Minorities and Gender Equality, Volume 2

In Muslim-majority countries, safeguarding minority rights and advancing gender equality are vital components of the broader human rights discussion. Minority rights encompass various groups, including ethnic, religious, and linguistic minorities, who often face discrimination, marginalisation and unequal treatment within society. These challenges are rooted in historical, cultural and socio-political factors that shape legal frameworks and societal attitudes towards minority communities. Similarly, gender dynamics play a significant role in the human rights discourse in these nations, as women encounter various forms of discrimination and inequality, such as limited access to education, employment, and participation in decision-making processes. This volume explores the legal frameworks concerning minority rights and gender equality in Egypt and Malaysia, shedding light on the challenges faced by marginalised groups in these countries. It evaluates the effectiveness of legal instruments and mechanisms in addressing discrimination and promoting inclusivity within these societies. Furthermore, it examines laws, government policies and court rulings related to women’s rights, covering essential topics such as education, employment and political engagement. This volume offers valuable insights for policymakers, legal practitioners, academics and activists dedicated to understanding and advocating for human rights in these societies.

“This illuminating book by a prolific young scholar Asif Mohiuddin sheds valuable light on the promising progress and ongoing barriers related to gender equality and minority rights in Egypt and Malaysia.  By presenting a nuanced view of the dynamics in each location, this important book will no doubt engender a thoughtful discussion and inspire meaningful efforts to make Muslim majority societies with significant non-Muslim minorities grounded in the rights and dignity of all people, regardless of gender or religious background.” (Adis Duderija, Senior Lecturer, Griffith University, Australia)

“Asif Mohiuddin's two-volume work titled Human Rights Law in Egypt and Malaysia with a focus on minority rights and gender equality 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)

“This volume uncovers the challenges faced by minorities and marginalised groups, particularly in the realms of gender equality and minority rights in Egypt and Malaysia. Mohiuddin’s choice of focusing on Egypt and Malaysia proves to be insightful as he examines the potential for equality among diverse communities within these nations. He identifies a common threat: the dominance of the majority over various minorities, whether they be ethnic, religious, or otherwise. The insightfulness and comprehensiveness of the author’s investigations should be appreciated. Individual issues are highlighted from different sides, which does not allow for simplified and therefore not always entirely objective assessments. Developing a social consensus between the analysed minorities is not only desirable but also realistic. The fact that such a book was written gives us hope for a better tomorrow and, above all, for a more bearable today.” (Mariusz Maslak, Professor, Crackow University of Technology, Poland)

“In Human Rights Law in Egypt and Malaysia: Minorities and Gender Equality, Asif Mohiuddin offers a profound exploration of crucial human rights issues in two culturally rich and diverse nations. This volume examines the complex interplay between legal frameworks, societal norms and the lived experiences of minorities and women. Mohiuddin’s comprehensive analysis not only sheds light on the challenges faced by these groups but also emphasizes the necessity of ongoing advocacy and reform.” (Ismail Fajrie Alatas, Associate Professor, New York University, USA)

“In this work, Asif Mohiuddin provides a comprehensive and insightful examination of minority rights and gender equality in Egypt and Malaysia. The book explores the historical, cultural and socio-political contexts shaping the status quo in both countries. In the context of Egypt, it delves into the complex interplay between constitutional guarantees, international commitments and practical constraints within an Islamic framework. In the context of Malaysia, the book documents the post-independence efforts to balance ethnic diversity and socio-economic disparities. The book also highlights the evolving roles of women, detailing their legal rights and societal challenges in both countries. It offers a nuanced understanding of the progress made and the obstacles that persist in the quest for equality and justice.” (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).