Does Islam have a Place in Gender Equality? Perspectives from Muslim Feminism and Secular Feminism

This article challenges the homogeneous portrayal of Middle East and North African feminism within Western academic discourse by examining the diverse approaches to gender equality through both secular and Islamic lenses. Highlighting the underrepresentation of female scholars from the Islamic world in scholarly discussions, it scrutinises the emergence and efficacy of Islamic feminism in achieving gender equality. Through a comparative analysis of prominent figures such as Asma Barlas, Amina Wadud, Fāṭima Marnīsī, Nawāl Al-Saʿdāwī and Ayān Ḥirsi ‘Alī, this study questions the sustainability of Islamic feminism as a distinct movement versus a pragmatic strategy within the Middle East and North African region.