Women's rights in Muslim laws is a topic that has become more and more sensitive with the passing of Sharia Acts in several states in Nigeria. This began with Zamfara State in November 1999, but presently also includes Niger, Sokoto, and Kano.
A Nigerian woman and co-ordinator of BAOBAB for Women's Human Rights, Ayesha Imam has been selected as this year's John Humphrey Freedom Award recipient for her work in support of women's rights whether under Muslim, secular, or customary laws.
After Ahmedabad, Vadodara (also known as Baroda) experienced the most widespread and sustained violence following the Godhra massacre on 27th February 2002.
The People's Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) and Vadodara Shanti Abhiyan (VSA) report severely indicts the state government, the city police and local politicians for instigating and committing violence.
Malaysian women's groups have warned that plans to enact strict Islamic laws in an opposition-ruled state would be a leap backwards in the fight for gender equality.
