Religious Freedom and Its Boundaries: Human Rights Discourses in Contemporary Muslim Societies

Abstract

This article explores the nuanced landscape of religious freedom within contemporary Muslim societies, focusing on the tension between individual liberties and collective religious norms. While Islam upholds the concept of freedom of belief, sociopolitical and legal frameworks often create boundaries around this right. Using a multidisciplinary approach combining Islamic jurisprudence, political theory, and human rights law, this study examines key challenges and opportunities for promoting religious freedom. Through case studies of Pakistan, Egypt, and Indonesia, the paper highlights the diversity of Muslim societies' responses to human rights discourses, emphasizing the need for context-sensitive solutions. The findings suggest that fostering dialogue between religious authorities, policymakers, and civil society actors is essential for balancing freedom of religion with societal cohesion