Women's groups call for equality in family law

(From left) Zharin, Syirin and Fatima at the launch Global Campaign for Equality in Family Law’s Week of Activism, its new website, as well as Musawah’s Campaign for Justice for Muslim Family Laws.

A family is the most basic unit in society, and while families can be a central support system, they can also be a place where individuals experience exploitation and discrimination, says Musawah executive director Zharin Zhafrael.

“Family is a space for comfort, warmth, love, nurturing, emotional support and psychological security, as well as a place where the basic necessities for survival – food, shelter, clothing – are met. It serves to promote order and stability within society as a whole. It’s where we learn lessons, how to differentiate right from wrong, and to help and care for each other,” says Zharin.