The human rights situation in Muslim-majority countries is a complex issue with varying degrees of progress and challenges. While some nations have made strides in upholding fundamental rights, others grapple with persistent violations. Key issues include religious freedom, women’s rights, freedom of expression, rule of law, and conflict-related displacement.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948 sparked a debate on human rights in the Islamic world, leading to the Cairo Declaration of Human Rights in Islam (CDHR) in 1990. While the CDHR is seen as a significant milestone, it is heavily qualified by shariah law.
Individual countries vary in their human rights records. Bahrain has faced criticism from the European Union for its human rights abuses. Malaysia has shown progress but still faces challenges. Saudi Arabia has made efforts to improve its record but remains under scrutiny for its treatment of human rights activists. Pakistan has a poor human rights record, with issues like extrajudicial killings, forced conversions, and honor killings. Turkey has made significant progress but faces ongoing concerns about freedom of expression and assembly. Iran has one of the worst human rights records globally, with severe restrictions on civil liberties and a high rate of executions.
While some countries have made strides in improving human rights, many still face significant challenges, often linked to Sharia law and political repression.