MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – The Global Conference on Women’s Rights in Islam officially commenced on Tuesday, May 14, at the Hall of Walidah Dahlan Mosque, Universitas ‘Aisyiyah (Unisa) Yogyakarta.
Unisa Rector Warsiti warmly welcomed participants from a diverse range of countries. In her opening remarks, she underscored the importance of the conference in advocating for women’s rights within the Islamic tradition.
“Today, we come together as a community with a variety of perspectives, but united by a common goal: to explore, understand, and uphold the rights of women within the Islamic framework,” Warsiti stated.
Warsiti cited Surah An Nahl verse 97 of the Quran to emphasize the inherent equality between men and women in Islam. She explained that both genders have equal opportunities to perform good deeds, and it is these actions that determine their standing in the eyes of God.
Despite the clear guidance provided by the Quran, Warsiti acknowledged the unfortunate reality that women’s rights are still frequently violated or even denied. The conference, she expressed hope, would serve as a powerful reminder of the principle of equality as enshrined in Islamic teachings.
Speaking on the significance of the conference’s location, Unisa Yogyakarta, Warsiti explained that the university is founded by an Islamic women’s organization. The very existence of this university stands as a testament to the vital role women can play in advancing society.
Meanwhile, Peter K. Munene, CEO of Faith to Action Network (F2A), delivered an address highlighting the central role that faith plays in the lives of both women and men around the world. Faith shapes their life experiences, identities, and behaviors.
“Faith provides individuals with a set of values that influence how they view themselves as men and women, how they navigate their social and intimate relationships, and how power and resources are allocated within their communities,” Munene explained.
Munene went on to detail the composition of the conference’s invited experts. These specialists on women’s issues hail from a variety of organizations, including Muhammadiyah-‘Aisyiyah, F2A, and Al-Azhar University in Egypt, which also co-hosted the event.
Additionally, the conference welcomed experts from a wide range of invited countries. The speakers will share their experiences and knowledge related to women’s issues, while also having the opportunity to learn from the experiences of Muhammadiyah-‘Aisyiyah.
Professor Gamal I Serour from Al-Azhar University also expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to participate in the conference. He revealed that Al-Azhar University would be presenting several papers relevant to the conference’s theme, such as the contributions of women in the public sphere.
Rev. Canon Grace Kaiso from Kenya expressed his delight at being present at this forum. The conference, he observed, reflected the very principles he has always held dear: that all humans are created equal and all are given the opportunity to fulfill their God-given potential.
Rev. Canon Grace was also deeply impressed by Indonesia. He views the country as a remarkable model of interfaith collaboration. The atmosphere of mutual tolerance and respect for diversity in Indonesia was truly inspiring.
