1) Meeting with the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, His Eminence Dr. Ahmed El-Tayeb (21st August 2024)
The Grand Imam emphasized the comprehensive nature of Islamic teachings on the protection of women and strongly condemned all forms of violence against them. He reaffirmed that Islam categorically rejects GBV and urged religious leaders to uphold and promote these values within their communities.
2) Meeting with the Grand Mufti of Egypt, His Eminence Sheik Nazir Mohamed Ayyad (22nd August 2024)
The Grand Mufti, Egypt’s top religious authority, provided a detailed analysis of Islamic provisions safeguarding women from violence. He also discussed the conditions under which polygamy is permitted in Islam, emphasizing that any practice leading to harm or injustice is against Islamic teachings. This session equipped MOLs with Islamic legal frameworks to challenge harmful practices contributing to GBV.
3) Visit to the International Islamic Centre for Population Studies and Research (IICPSR) at Al-Azhar University (20th August 2024)
The delegation visited the International Islamic Centre for Population Studies and Research (IICPSR), led by Prof. Dr. Gamal I. Serour. The center integrates Islamic teachings with reproductive health practices, advocating for:
- Family planning
- Campaigns against harmful practices like Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
- Education of religious leaders on reproductive health
4) Session with Prof. Ibrahim Al-Hodh, Former President of Al-Azhar University (22nd August 2024)
Prof. Al-Hodh explored the intersections of religion, culture, and GBV, explaining how cultural practices are often misinterpreted as religious mandates, thereby perpetuating GBV. He advocated for a return to authentic Islamic teachings, prioritizing women’s dignity and protection.
5) Interactive Session with Prof. Dr. Elham Shaheen, Assistant Secretary General of the Islamic Research Academy, Egypt - 25th August 2024
TProf. Ilham’s session focused on the root causes and psychological and social dimensions of GBV. The professor highlighted the severe psychological impacts of GBV on women and communities. She stressed the importance of addressing these issues through religious counseling and legal frameworks. The session included case studies that illustrated successful interventions in GBV cases, providing delegates with practical tools to implement in their communities.
Prof. Elham Shaheen analyzed the root causes, psychological effects, and social dimensions of GBV. She emphasized the need for:
- Religious counseling
- Legal frameworks
- Case study-based interventions
The session provided MOLs with practical tools to implement within their communities.
6) Engagement with the National Council for Motherhood and Childhood
This visit provided insights into Egypt’s national strategies for protecting women and children from violence. The Council shared its initiatives, including:
- Educational programs
- Awareness campaigns
- Support services for GBV survivors
The discussion emphasized the importance of a multi-faceted approach that combines legal, educational, and social interventions.
