The title may be a bit misleading, especially if one were to go by the Western interpretations of the equation between women and radical Islamist groups in Middle East. Obviously the ground realities do not portray a very cheerful picture and, to some extent, feed such negative interpretations. However, women empowerment and radical Islam is a complex equation, which is changing, and from the looks of it for good.
True enough, women in more pluralistic and tolerant societies like Egypt, Beirut and Lebanon are seeking to enhance their roles in societies - demanding greater say in decision making and changing status quo on women’s rights vis-a-vis Islam. But the interesting fact is that it is not the secular and liberal groups that are providing a forum for women but conservative groups like Hezbollah (Lebanon) and the Muslim Brotherhood (particularly in Egypt). Hence, the ‘anomaly’ in title.
And yet the reasons for such an inconsistency are quite understandable. While the conservative groups tend to derive support from the Western lobbies, radical groups try to garner support from amongst the masses. Hence the latter tend to be more legitimate and popular. Also, the liberal groups tend to side with the West on most issues (including terrorism and Islam), thereby eroding their support base in society, which is still of conventional mindset.
However, the biggest reason for Shias to suddenly pitch in for women has to do with changing political scenarios. Over the past decade or so, several radical groups have stepped into political mainframe. Democratic setup has meant that these groups must actively solicit support of women to ensure a broader cadre and voter-group. The result is that several women have come to the fore as leaders. The women in such organizations are entrusted with the tasks of reaching out to female voters and even running for offices, if need arises. Enhanced roles in political outfits, albeit radical ones, has meant that women in general, too, are beginning to challenge their accepted roles in society.
Read the story of Ghazwa Farahat, Hezbollah-affiliated woman who won municipal elections in Beirut, to notice how such groups can actively pursue women and ask men to abide by their decisions. As a matter of fact, Hezbollah recognizes and promotes women’s rights, more so than other fundamental groups. Similar is the case with the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt.
Such developments can go a long way in improving the lot of Muslim women around the world. These developments are sure to give a jolt to the rigid interpretation of Western commentators on the role of women in Islamist organizations. It is bound to make them give due regard to the cultural, political and economic backgrounds while embarking on any sort of analysis. But more importantly so, such developments will go a long way in ensuring a broad base for feminist movements in Middle East, something which the so called liberals cannot do alone.
