In the Name of Allāh,

the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful

Praise is due to Allāh, Lord of the worlds, may the blessings and peace be upon our master Muḥammad, the last of prophets, on his family, and all his companions.

Resolution No. 211 (7/22) Women and Public Governorships

The Council of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, holding its 22nd session in Kuwait City, State of Kuwait, on 2–5 Jumādā al-Ākhirah 1436h (22–25 March 2015),

Having examined the research papers submitted to the Academy concerning

Women and Public Governorships,

Having listened to the in-depth discussions on the subject,

Resolves

First: The Academy emphasizes that Islam has granted women their full rights and placed them in the most suitable position taking into consideration their social status and natural abilities, as well as their role and responsibility as a mother, daughter, and spouse.

Second: The Academy shares the same opinion of the majority of Muslim scholars that woman is not to assume supreme governorship (head of state).

Third: Women’s assumption of public positions of powers such as head of the judiciary, ministerial positions and the likes is a controversial issue among Fiqh scholars of different schools. This is considered a matter of khilāf muʿtabar (recognizable difference of opinion); therefore, scholars can decide, at the coun- try level, the viewpoint they deem worthy of preponderance.

Fourth: When a woman assumes any public position of the above types, she should abide by the rules and manners of Shariah, especially how to dress among others. Besides, her assumption of such positions should by no means impede her primary educational functions towards her family.

Indeed, Allāh is All-Knowing.