On the occasion of International Women's Day…

The Muslim Council of Elders: Women are essential partners in the journey of nation and community building. Empowering and supporting them is a shared duty and responsibility.

The Muslim Council of Elders, led by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, has affirmed that women are fundamental partners in the nation and community-building journey. It emphasized that empowering and supporting women and girls, developing their capacities, and ensuring their full rights across all aspects of life are religious and ethical obligations as well as shared societal responsibilities.

In a statement issued on the occasion of International Women's Day, observed annually on March 8th, the Muslim Council of Elders stated that this day offers an opportunity to honor and celebrate women's achievements. The Council affirmed that Islam honors women as mothers, sisters, daughters, and wives, elevates their status and importance in all aspects of life, and promotes kindness, care, and respect towards them. Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said, "Act kindly toward women" (Muslim). Islam also emphasizes that the best among people are the best in their treatment of their wives. The Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, also said, "The most perfect man in his faith among the believers is the one whose behaviour is most excellent; and the best of you are those who are the best to their wives" (Ahmed). Another prophetic Hadith states: "The best of you is he who is best to his family, and I am the best among you to my family" (at-Tirmidhi).

The statement further emphasized that women are counterparts of men, and supporting and empowering them represents an investment in the future that benefits the entire world. It highlighted the Document on Human Fraternity, signed by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, and His Holiness Pope Francis, Pontiff of the Catholic Church, in Abu Dhabi in 2019. This Document affirmed women's rights to education and employment and called for their liberation from historical and social pressures that contradict the principles of their faith and their dignity.

The Muslim Council of Elders places significant emphasis on women, driven by its steadfast belief in the necessity of supporting them in securing all their rights across various domains, recognizing them as active contributors to society. The Council praises their crucial and significant role in the development of nations and communities and in shaping a more prosperous and peaceful future for humanity.