Gender, Sexuality and Criminal Laws in the Middle East and North Africa (2005, English)
The article is based on a comparative study on how gender and sexuality is regulated in the criminal laws of the Middle East and North Africa. Examining the similarities of criminal codes with respect to sexuality in the two regions, it approaches them through a historical and cultural lens to provide an insight into the tribal, religious, and colonial backgrounds of these laws. Also comparing the use of terms such as ‘honor, adultery, marital rape, homosexuality, sex work, FGM’ etc., in both regions, the article explores how human rights violations are legitimized by criminal law in these regions and how the oppression of sexuality is perpetuated. Considered the most comprehensive study on the issue up to date, the article is of great significance for advocates of legal reform for providing an in-depth historical and contemporary analysis of gender, sexuality, and criminal systems.
Sherifa Zuhur
Istanbul, 2005
