Living in A Seashell - Exploring the Different Approaches for Protecting Women in Druze Communities and its Impact on Religiously Observant Women's Access to Education and Economic Independence

Abstract

The Druze, an Islamic religious sect primarily concentrated in the Middle Eastern countries such as Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and occupied Palestine, are known for their unique interpretation of the Quran, particularly in terms of gender equity. While their doctrine promotes gender equity, societal norms might often steer towards patriarchy. This research examined how certain patriarchal norms manifest as social overprotection, which include practices that aim to safeguard women, but it adversely limits their educational opportunities, and economic independence, particularly among those who are religiously observant. This study involved interviews with twenty-four Druze women, both religiously observant and non-observant, who either had or were denied the opportunity to pursue higher education and careers outside their community. It highlighted the challenges they encountered both within and outside the Druze community, and the broader impact of these experiences on their personal and professional lives. The significance of this research lies in its potential to offer insights into the intersection of faith, culture, and gender within Druze community. By comparing the experiences of religiously observant and non-observant women, the study illustrates how religious observance introduces an additional layer of intersectionality that shapes women's lives in distinct ways. By delving into this underexplored domain, especially in Lebanon, this research seeks to inform policies and practices that empower Druze women and improve their overall well-being and self-satisfaction.