Palestinian Women and Muslim Family Law in the Mandate Period

Brownson's research on Palestinian Muslim women's agency in shari'a courts from the British Mandate period to the present reveals that women were and are active participants in their legal affairs, despite the patriarchal bias of the system. She uncovers ways women have manipulated the system to their benefit and finds that few reforms were implemented during the Mandate period. Women's understanding of family law fundamentals has enabled some to navigate the system, but a unified, reformed law is required to ensure full access to their rights.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 30 July 2019
Publisher: Syracuse University Press

In this groundbreaking volume, Brownson delves into the agency of Palestinian Muslim women in shari'a courts from the British Mandate period to the present. Through extensive archival research on wife-initiated maintenance claims, divorce, and child custody cases, she sheds new light on the position of women in these courts, revealing their active participation and influence.

Through meticulous analysis of court registers and interviews, Brownson uncovers a range of strategies employed by women to navigate the patriarchal system and seek their legal interests. She highlights how women have manipulated legal procedures, challenged traditional gender roles, and advocated for their rights within the confines of the shari'a courts.

However, Brownson's research also reveals the limited reforms implemented during the British Mandate period. The British, driven by a desire to avoid further antagonizing Palestinians and maintain control over the colonized territory, showed little interest in improving women's legal status. At the same time, Palestinians sought to uphold the one indigenous institution they still controlled, while British rule and Zionism posed threats to their nationalist aspirations.

Despite the limited alternatives available to Palestinian women, they continue to resist the injustices of the male-dominated system. Brownson's findings suggest that women's understanding of family law fundamentals has enabled some to navigate the system with skill and ingenuity. However, a unified, reformed law that reflects society's current needs is essential to ensure women's full access to their rights.

In conclusion, Brownson's volume provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of Palestinian Muslim women's agency in shari'a courts. Through her meticulous research and insightful analysis, she challenges prevailing narratives and sheds light on the complex dynamics between women, the legal system, and political contexts. This book is a must-read for scholars, activists, and anyone interested in gender justice and the intersection of religion and law in the Middle East.

Weight: 312g
Dimension: 255 x 613 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780815636465