The issue of women in Islam is controversial. In many countries around the world, nations have declared that women’s rights in Islamic Countries are unfair. The issue is more complex than mandatory clothing laws, like the burka or hijab, but also marital issues and coercion into marriage at a young age.
Many Western countries such as the United Stated believe that the hijab, or veil, the women must wear are unfair and that it is a symbol of a Muslim woman's obedience to men. Also, Western nations fear that these coverings and other discriminatory acts against women violate the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights, specifically Article II which states, “Everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration, without distinction of any kind, such as race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status.” And Article XVI which supports the rights of both men and women in “equal rights as to marriage, during marriage and its dissolution…” and that “Marriage shall be entered into only with the free and full consent of the intending spouses.
Many Islamic nations protest the callous Western viewpoint, calling for their people’s rights to freedom of religion. These nations believe that it is within their jurisdiction as provided by Article II of the Charter of the United Nation to establish laws that follow their religion. Nations like the Islamic Republic of Iran and Saudi Arabia have integrated religion into their government and as fully sovereign nations, expect that the laws within their nation, including religious laws will be upheld. Many Muslim women argue that they are proud to wear their hijab. Islamic Countries argue that women's rights were established by the Qur’ân and the Prophet, and that their ideals preach the love of womankind.
Should the United Nations pass a resolution further protecting the rights of Islamic women? If the United Nations passed a resolution, what should be changed about the way women are treated?
As you enter the conference remember to form blocs with the nations whose policy will be most similar to your own. For example in this debate most Islamic nations like Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Afghanistan will form a bloc because their nations all have similar laws in place that alter the lives of women. Nations like the USA, and countries in the EU will form a block to abdicate for the liberal freedoms of women in this area. Remember that this is not your opinion, but the policy of the country that you are representing. Thanks and have fun!