Publications
Gender and Islam in Africa: Rights, Sexuality, and Law
Gender and Islam in Africa examines ways in which women in Africa are interpreting traditional Islamic concepts in order to empower themselves and their societies.
China and the Persian Gulf
Beijing, in its quest looking for energy resources, is slowly and steadily building ties with the resource-rich Persian Gulf states. What implications does this have for Washington which constantly looks to counterbalance China's influence in the global arena? This new book, edited by the Asia Program at the Wilson Center, examines China’s role in the Persian Gulf, evolving views on China from within the Gulf, and what China’s presence means for the United States.
"Best Practices": Progressive Family Laws in Muslim Countries
The goal of this project is to produce a concise, brief document that indicates “best practices” in the application and implementation of family law in Muslim countries. Thereby, we wish to make the positive developments that are occurring in the Muslim world’s legislative and judicial practice better known and available to other states and practitioners that are grappling with the same issues. We hope this overview will be helpful to lawmakers, legal practitioners, and civil society groups. Publication available in English, Dari, and Arabic.
"The Woman Question," an article by Haleh Esfandiari
In fighting for their own rights, women in the Middle East are broadening the democratic space in society as a whole.
Political Transition in Afghanistan: The State, Islam, and Civil Society
With the adoption of a new constitution in January 2004 and elections slated for September 2004, Afghanistan stands at a critical turning point in its political development. This Special Report examines the challenges facing Afghanistan in its quest for democracy and stability.
The Strategic Partnership Between India and Iran
India and Iran—one the object of much wooing from Washington, the other a member of President Bush’s “axis of evil” —announced the creation of a “strategic partnership” in 2003. This Special Report explores the new cordiality in relations between New Delhi and Tehran, as well as the ways this partnership may impact upon the interests of other regional players.
Women, Muslim Laws and Human Rights in Nigeria
In September 2003, the Woodrow Wilson International Center’s Africa and Middle East Programs co-sponsored a forum on Women, Islam and Human Rights in Africa. At the forum, a notable keynote address was presented by the distinguished feminist scholar, Ayesha Imam, coordinator of the Nigerian women’s rights organization, BAOBOB. Here are Dr. Imam’s
remarks, presented in the form of responses to queries posed by Woodrow Wilson Fellow and forum organizer, Mary Osirim.
More Than Victims: The Role of Women in Conflict Prevention
On September 12, 2002, the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and Women Waging Peace co-sponsored a
conference entitled "More than Victims: The Role of Women in Conflict Prevention." The aim of the meeting was to move beyond the stereotypical images of women as victims in conflict and to explore their complex experiences as fighters, peacebuilders, survivors and protectors. This report provides a summary of the panel presentations and rich discussions
that followed. While highlighting many of the challenges that remain, it provides concrete examples of how the international community in general can support women’s efforts and peacebuilding processes.
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