Women's Rights in the Muslim World

Submitted by Joe (United States), Jun 28, 2006 at 16:18

Hi, Daniel,

In view of the recent story of an American teenager running away to marry an arab man in Jerico (the guy claimed he "loved" her - from a chat room, no less!), I'd like to see a comprehensive overview of the current popular Muslim attitude towards women and marriage. I know that the men practice polygamy, do not value women's opinions, can have their wives killed if they are suspected of adultery, the husband will keep (or kidnap) the kids in the event the marriage doesn't work out, and all females must wear some sort of body covering clothing in public (in private too?). Some men will use their Western wife as a human shield, once they tire of them. If you could embellish this list or add to it, it may help some besotted young woman from giving up her lifestyle and freedom for a misguided romance.

Thanks, Joe

Note: Opinions expressed in comments are those of the authors alone and not necessarily those of Daniel Pipes. Original writing only, please. Comments are screened and in some cases edited before posting. Reasoned disagreement is welcome but not comments that are scurrilous, off-topic, commercial, disparaging religions, or otherwise inappropriate. For complete regulations, see the "Guidelines for Reader Comments".