Jurisprudential - legal studies of woman and family

Jurisprudential - legal studies of woman and family

Women, the Presidency, and Other Leadership Positions from the Perspective of Contemporary Shi'a Jurists

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
masuomeh zibaeenezhad 1
sedigheh zibaeenezhad 2
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Educational Psychology and Counseling, Farhangian University, Tehran, Iran
2 Graduate of Level Three Seminary, PhD Student in Women’s Studies, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
From the perspective of Islam, women are influential not only in their roles within the family but also in social and political spheres and developments. Today, these areas are not only impactful but have also emerged as a public demand, compelling governance to define their position, formulate policies, and plan accordingly. Therefore, jurists, by referring to Islamic sources — given their comprehensiveness — must be able to provide appropriate responses to these emerging demands and questions. In light of this issue, Shi'a jurists generally address this need by presenting Islam’s overarching perspective on the principle of women’s political and social participation. This study examines the jurisprudential foundations of [Shi'a] jurists regarding women’s presence in positions such as the presidency and other leadership roles, including membership in the Islamic Consultative Assembly (Parliament). In general, the permissibility of women’s participation in political spheres — while adhering to religious boundaries — has been affirmed by jurists. However, there is disagreement over women assuming certain responsibilities, particularly those that fall under the concept of *wilāyah* (guardianship) or its absence for women, which this research briefly explores. 
Keywords
women
presidency
Shi'a jurists
women and the presidency
Subjects
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Jurisprudential - legal studies of woman and family
Volume 8, Issue 15 - Serial Number 15
September 2025
Pages 69-90

  • Receive Date 27 June 2023
  • Revise Date 24 August 2023
  • Accept Date 24 October 2023