Women at the Heart of Unity: Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference Emphasizes Female Leadership

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

The second day of Bahrain’s Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference concluded yesterday, placing a powerful spotlight on the vital role of women in fostering unity within the Muslim Ummah. Scholars, religious leaders, and intellectuals from across the Islamic world gathered to discuss how women serve as pillars of dialogue, education, and social progress.

Opening the third working session, Prof. Dr. Rashid bin Ali Al-Harthi, Dean of the Faculty of Sharia Sciences in Oman, highlighted the importance of cooperation and mutual understanding in strengthening the Ummah. “Despite our differences, we share common goals,” he stated. “Holding meaningful discussions like this helps us bridge gaps and unify our communities. Women are not just half of society—they are its very foundation, playing a crucial role in shaping future generations and ensuring that dialogue remains relevant.”

Dr. Fawzi Mahmoud Al-Khoza’i, President of the Institute for Justice and Wisdom in the USA, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that women are essential in steering Islamic discourse away from extremism. “Women symbolize strength, wisdom, and faith. They have always been instrumental in shaping Islamic culture and should be empowered through education and dialogue,” he noted. “It is our responsibility to support them in spreading the message of unity and peace.”

Dr. Aisha Omar Youssef Al-Manna’i, Director of the Hamad Bin Khalifa Center for Islamic Civilization in Qatar, took the discussion further by addressing the need for greater female representation in such forums. “Dialogue cannot exist without both men and women,” she remarked. “History has shown us the resilience of women, particularly in times of hardship, such as in Palestine, where they have stood strong in the face of adversity. Women possess the power and grace to negotiate, build, and transform society. Yet, I must ask—why was only one session dedicated to this topic? In future conferences, women should have more time to contribute to these crucial discussions.”

The theme of women’s empowerment resonated throughout the day’s sessions, reinforcing the idea that their role in Islamic dialogue is not supplementary but central. Participants emphasized the importance of education, leadership, and greater inclusion in decision-making processes to strengthen intra-Islamic relations.

As the conference drew to a close, the discussions underscored a collective commitment to ensuring that women are not just participants but leaders in shaping the future of Islamic discourse. With powerful voices calling for increased recognition and action, the dialogue initiated in Bahrain is poised to inspire lasting change across the Muslim world.