The role of Muslim women in politics has its roots planted deep within the historical landscape, often overlooked and under-represented. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that these women have played significant roles in shaping societies, creating change, and fighting for justice. Today, as Muslim societies around the globe continue to evolve, it becomes even more imperative for both Muslim men and women to embrace civic engagement, and more specifically, politics, as a fundamental aspect of the Islamic faith.

Historical Muslim Women in Politics

Khadijah bint Khuwaylid: the first wife of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), was a successful merchant and a highly influential figure in Mecca. Her economic contributions and wise counsel were invaluable, not just in the context of her personal relationship with the Prophet, but in shaping the early Muslim community as a whole.

Aisha bint Abi Bakr: another wife of the Prophet, was a significant figure in early Islamic politics. She contributed to Islamic jurisprudence and was involved in several important events in Islamic history, including the Battle of the Camel, one of the first major Islamic civil wars.

Sultan Raziyyat-Ud-Dunya-Wa-Din: known as Razia Sultan, was the Sultan of Delhi in India from 1236 to 1240. She was one of the few women to ever take the throne in a patriarchal society.

Shajarat al-Durr: was a ruler of Egypt and played a crucial role in the Seventh Crusade, showing that Muslim women could lead at the highest levels and during the most challenging times.

Nur Jahan: was the chief wife of Mughal Emperor Jahangir and an influential figure in the Mughal court. She effectively ruled the empire in her husband’s stead during his later years, making critical decisions and managing the administration.

Sayyida al Hurra: was the queen of the city-state of Tétouan in present-day Morocco, Sayyida al Hurra was an influential political leader. She was also a powerful pirate leader, working alongside the famous pirate Barbarossa to control the western Mediterranean Sea.

Atiqa bint Zayd: was a politically active woman during the early Islamic period. She was married to Umar ibn al-Khattab, the second caliph, and was known for her strong opinions and involvement in political matters.

Sitt al-Mulk: was the Fatimid Princess and sister of Fatimid Caliph Al-Hakim. She served as the de facto ruler during her brother’s absence and later as the regent for her nephew, the young Caliph Ali az-Zahir.

These women shattered stereotypes and demonstrated leadership, courage, and political acumen in times when women’s roles were largely confined to domestic spheres.

In recent years, more Muslim women have gained prominence in the political arena. Women like Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib, Dalia Mogahed in the United States, and Zarah Sultana, Naz Shah or Apsana Begum from the UK. However, the representation of Muslim women in politics is still not at the level it should be. Given that political decision-making processes significantly influence all aspects of societal life, including women’s lives, it is essential that Muslim women are adequately represented in politics.

Muslim civic engagement as a pillar of Islamic faith

Islam encourages civic engagement as part of fulfilling the role of Khalifah on earth. The Qur’an states;

“You are the best nation produced [as an example] for mankind. You enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong and believe in Allah” (3:110).

Islam also teaches that each individual, male or female, should seek knowledge and use it for the betterment of society, and that is inclusive of the political sphere. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) said;

“The seeking of knowledge is obligatory for every Muslim” (Narration by Al-Tirmidhi).

This includes the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about governance and leadership.

Moreover, Islam does not discourage women from participating in politics. As the historical figures mentioned earlier illustrate, women have been active in Islamic politics since its inception. Muslim women have a rich history of political involvement that should serve as inspiration for increased civic engagement in contemporary times. As Muslims, it is our duty to be active participants in our societies.

The responsibility of Muslim men is to support and uplift Muslim women in these endeavours. Muslim men play a significant role in enabling and encouraging Muslim women’s participation in politics. This starts at home by encouraging education, championing their ideas, dismantling patriarchal biases, and supporting women in their political endeavours.

Ultimately, the participation of Muslim women in politics is not just about representation. It is about the richness of perspectives, the diverse range of experiences, and the sense of justice that they bring to the table. It is about fulfilling our roles as Muslims to contribute positively to society and make the world a better place.