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AWR is proud to announce it has produced a book on the role of Sharia in Egypt's constitution. To order, see instructions below.
The Sharia as the Main Source of Legislation? (Tectum ,2012)
CAIRO, Egypt (AWR) -- As Egypt enters a new phase of transition with its first Islamist government, Christians and non-Islamist Muslims have become fearful of the implications of an Islamist government for the rule of law. Their major concern is the push for implementation of Islamic law through Article II of the Constitution. In Western countries this Article has caused an outcry against Islamists from those harboring little desire for dialogue and understanding.
"It is obvious from various western publications about Egypt’s legislation that authors have lacked access to Egyptian sources and Egyptian views and explanations of the Constitution and civil law," says AWR Editor-in-Chief Cornelis Hulsman, who edited the publication. "This lack of access results in articles written from a Western perspective without sufficiently taking into account Egyptian views and cultural differences between Egypt and the Western world."
This book aims to spark a more fruitful exchange by offering an unprecedented look into this debate among Muslims and Christians in Egypt. Providing statistical analysis, interviews, as well as contributions by many Egyptian officials, it facilitates readers to develop an informed position on this matter.
"Insufficient access to Egyptian views and context have contributed to a widespread and dangerous belief in the West that if only Egypt’s laws provided absolute, unconditional equality for all citizens, that is by removing all references to the sharīʿah and making religion an issue of a personal conviction only, social change would follow.
"But if such views on Egyptian law and legislation were applied without a corresponding change in society, there would certainly be resistance and communal tension. In other words, changes in society should precede changes in law and legislation, just as this happened in the West."
This book can be purchased until October 31 at the reduced price of 15 €. From November 1, the regular price is 24,90 €. To order a copy, fill out an order form and send to [email protected] The mail should reference order AoR 3 - 3067.
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