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.
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).