Under the veil: women’s economic and marriage rights in Palestine

Abstract

This article considers the debate relating to the implementation of the CEDAW in Palestine, particularly the issues relating to underage marriage and equal inheritance. Both of these issues have caused considerable controversy and opened a wide debate in Palestine due to the patriarchal socio-culture in Palestine, where it is considered that such rights would undermine the interests of the male elite and conflict with the dominance of men over women. Accordingly, the article provides an in-depth analysis of how the interaction of religious teachings, socio-cultural systems, and patriarchal traditions shape the Arab and Palestinian view on gender equality and women’s rights in the modern day. Furthermore, the article examines the influence of religion on the patriarchal and socio-cultural system in determining the efforts that are being made to achieve equality and discusses how the Palestinian authorities, human rights activists, and liberal political parties have not been able to overcome the power of traditional religious scholars and clerics who have a much greater influence and are able to win over public opinion. Our findings reveal that more progressive interpretations of Islam are possible, which in turn allows a fuller embrace of women’s rights. The findings also highlight the role of the Palestinian Authority and feminist groups in changing the mindset of Palestinian society regarding women’s rights and equality, where gradual steps that include economic empowerment, education and public engagement with enlightened scholars must be taken to achieve this change.