The impact of Catholicism and Islam on women's rights : a Euromed perspective

Abstract

The focus of this thesis regards the impact of two of the most widespread religions; Catholicism and Islam, and their correlation with women's rights in the Euromed region. Religion has often been at the forefront of debate when women's rights are discussed. An in-depth analysis into the impact of religion on women's rights is essential for the comprehension of women's rights and their progression over the years. The analysis of the impact is examined both from a legal perspective as well as from a religious perspective in Chapter One. Chapters Two and Three concern case studies regarding the application of both religions in different countries. This illustrates the diversity in interpretation and implementation of the same religion in the countries' legal codes. Chapter Four deals with the violations against women that are executed in the name of religion. Several issues dealing with religion and women are examined for the purpose of identifying whether religion condones such behaviour or whether the offenders are hiding behind the excuse of religion. The Concluding Chapter reviews what is discussed in the previous Chapters and offers some recommendations. The ultimate goal of this thesis is to contribute to the analysis of the socio-political factors that help or hinder the progression of women's rights in the Euromed region.