Islam, Land, and Property: Muslim Women and Property

It is commonly assumed that Muslim women are frustrated in their pursuit of property rights because those rights are limited under the Islamic legal system, they lack agency in the face of oppressive family and social structures and have an absence of conviction in their articulation of gender rights. This paper explores these issues through an analysis of the legal status of women with regard to property under Islamic law (Shari'a), the socio-historical background to women's property rights, an appraisal of modern legal reforms and the avenues for enhancing their security of tenure.  Exploring the nature and scope of women’s rights to property and land ownership will enhance women’s access to land and enforcement of their other property rights. 

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