MCE: International Women’s Day Is a Key Opportunity to Reaffirm Women’s Role in Nation-Building

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the leadership of Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, emphasizes that the celebration of International Women’s Day presents a vital opportunity to recognize women’s fundamental role in building nations. 

Highlighting that women are the counterparts of men and essential partners in the journey of progress and development, the Council calls for empowering women and girls to fully attain their rights and for supporting and enhancing their capabilities. 

It stresses that Islam was the first to grant women their full rights, liberating them from imposed restrictions and constraints.

In a statement marking International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8th, the Council affirmed that Islam honors women as mothers, sisters, daughters, and wives, elevating their status in all aspects of life.

It encourages kindness and good companionship towards them, as the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “I urge you to treat women kindly.” (Narrated by Muslim) Islam also emphasizes that the best among people are those who treat their women with excellence. The Prophet (PBUH) said: “The most complete of the believers in faith are those with the best character, and the best of you are the best to their women.” (Narrated by Ahmad) The Prophet also said: “The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best of you to my family.” (Narrated by At-Tirmidhi)

The Muslim Council of Elders urges governments and nations worldwide to take decisive steps toward empowering and supporting women, countering all forms of violence and discrimination against them, raising awareness of their rights, and fostering an environment that enables their productivity and engagement in all sectors. The Document on Human Fraternity, signed by His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, and His Holiness Pope Francis, Pontiff of the Catholic Church, in Abu Dhabi in 2019, affirms women’s rights to education and employment and underscores the need to free them from historical and social pressures that contradict the principles of their faith and dignity.