WOMEN RIGHTS

How does Education Influence Iranian Women to fight for their Rights?

How does Education Influence Iranian Women to fight for their Rights?

Introduction

Education is a symbol of social progress for every country. In the broader perspective, education cultivates a sense of understanding of one's rights and responsibilities. In Iran, however, women have had to undergo tireless struggles to get through the religious, cultural, and societal barriers in their pursuit of education (Arasteh, 1969). This paper discusses the role of these barriers in limiting the educational and career opportunities of Iranian women. The paper also addresses the positive developments which have had a significant impact to reduce these barriers.

Discussion and Analysis

In line with Islamic teaching, all women have the right to education, but a minority is still having a limited access to education and work, a product of traditional and cultural values. According to Sharia, the Muslim code of conduct for all occasions, women's rights are substantially restricted as compared to men. For example, according to the Koran, a devout Muslim has the right to take two, three and even four wives, not counting the slaves, concubines, whose number is practically unlimited (Afkhami, 2004). In court, the testimony of one man equals the testimony of two women. In addition, the husband always has the right to divorce. A wife and slave must comply with loyalty to his master, and adultery is severely punishable (Kazemzadeh, 2002). Shariah provides the seclusion of women, especially married women, and obliges them to cover the face in public. In previous years, education and social activities were practically closed for women. Other women rights, like control over birth and family planning, are strongly opposed (Cooke, 2001).

The Persian Women's Movement's dates back to the early 20th century, when Iranian women began their fight for the modern ...