Women Rights in Islamic Societies: A Comparative Study of Iran and Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Iran and Saudi Arabia are Muslim countries and have an influential role in the whole Muslim World. Both countries have a tribal background in which they have no mindset about women's rights in society. There is a competition between both governments to impose limitations on their female population. Iran claims surprising political change in during the contemporary period. Among these changes has been notable alternation in women’s role in society and status. There is a social and political gap between women and men; between the westernized educationist class and the popular class as well as between democratic and local activists. On the other hand, the Saudi monarchy has started its top-down reforms. Women are granted permission to drive and perform in concerts and run their own businesses. As well as Saudi women can join the military. Therefore, both countries are still ignoring women's rights compared to other nations. The study examines the uncovered heterogeneity of the two states. The paper additionally gives short learning on current conditions influencing women in both states. The study also comparatively analyzes the condition of women's rights and political rights in Iran and Saudi Arabia. It also traces women's struggle to seek rights, particularly political rights through the theory of gender equality. The study follows the descriptive-analytical method and most data is collected from secondary sources.