Muslim struggles for shariah courts in Thailand: an analytical study

Wan Muhammad, Ramizah (2014) Muslim struggles for shariah courts in Thailand: an analytical study. International Journal of Islamic Thought, 3 (2). pp. 47-58. ISSN 1816-689X

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Abstract

Muslims, especially in southern Thailand, have been struggling to lead their lives according to Shari’ah. They have been demanding independence or at least autonomy especially for the southern part of Thailand from the central government. Their aim is to transform the socio-economic and political set-up in the South along Islamic lines. They began with the demand for Shariah Courts to be established in the region. This struggle for Shari’ah court is in accordance with the fundamental right enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that stipulates that every person has the right to practice his/her religion. This is also required by religion. Muslims are under obligation to live according to the Islamic way of life and to settle disputes among fellow Muslims through Shari’ah courts. However, Muslims are denied the right to Shari’ah court. There are no procedural laws and adequate substantive laws to govern their practical lives. The mass media highlights the insurgency that is taking place in southern Thailand but not the inequality and injustices Muslims face in the region. Muslims have been marginalized in almost every aspect despite being the citizens of the kingdom. This paper analyses the current situation regarding the status of Shari’ah courts in Thailand, analyses albeit briefly the injustices meted out to the Muslims and argues for granting the right to Shari’ah court in Thailand.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Additional Information:	1717/39975
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Shari'ah courts, Muslims in Thailand, Dato' Yuthitam, Human rights.
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BL Religion K Law > KBP Islamic Law
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Ahmad Ibrahim Kulliyyah of Laws > Department of Islamic Law
Depositing User:	Dr. Ramizah Wan Muhammad
Date Deposited:	19 Dec 2014 11:20
Last Modified:	22 Feb 2016 12:14
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/39975

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