The application of feminism in the Arab world: research perspectives

Abstract

Purpose

The paper's objective is to explore how the concepts of feminism can be applied in an Arab context to help the emancipation of women.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a literature based study that evaluates what form of feminism best fits the Arab context. This gives rise to a suggestion of how Arab women can navigate feminist ideals within their cultural discourses.

Findings

The study indicates that it is possible for Arab women to create sustainable emancipatory movement by gradually challenging patriarchal discourses while still maintaining a connection to key societal norms.

Research limitations/implications

This paper presents a focused literature study and contains limited first hand accounts of Emirate females. It does, however, provide the basis for obtaining more in‐depth first hand accounts in future studies.

Practical implications

The study indicates that Islamic principles must be considered in any discussion of feminism in an Arab context. In addition, the study acknowledges that successful feminist movements should be gradual and should take into account societal discourses to allow women to gain emancipatory action while not becoming alienated from their society. The study notes the importance of the sharing of experiences as a catalyst for change.

Originality/value

The paper is one of the few attempting to discuss the application of feminist concepts in an Arabic context.

Citation

Gallant, M. (2008), "The application of feminism in the Arab world: research perspectives", Education, Business and Society: Contemporary Middle Eastern Issues, Vol. 1 No. 3, pp. 193-199. https://doi.org/10.1108/17537980810909814