A Comparative Study between Islamic Human Rights and International Human Rights

اسلامی اور بین الاقوامی انسانی حقوق :ایک تحقیقی و تقابلی مطالعہ

Abstract

This research paper provides a comprehensive comparative study of Islamic and international human rights, examining their principles, sources, and practical implementations. Both systems share a common objective: safeguarding human dignity, freedom, and justice, but they differ significantly in their foundations, scope, and enforcement mechanisms.

Islamic human rights are rooted in the Quran and Sunnah, and are categorized into Rights of Allah (Huquq Allah) and Rights of People (Huquq al-‘Ibad). This dual framework emphasizes both individual moral responsibility and societal obligations. Key rights include the right to life, equality, justice, and religious freedom, all of which are inseparable from the corresponding duties of individuals. The enforcement of these rights is linked to divine accountability and is realized through Shariah-based legal and ethical frameworks.

International human rights, in contrast, are based on human reasoning, global consensus, and secular legal agreements. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR, 1948) and subsequent international treaties, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), provide guidelines for protecting fundamental freedoms, equality, and legal safeguards globally. However, their enforcement often depends on political will, national interests, and the functioning of international organizations like the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).

The study identifies areas of convergence, such as the right to life, equality, religious freedom, and justice, while noting differences in sources, theoretical frameworks, and implementation strategies. Islamic human rights derive authority from divine guidance and moral accountability, whereas international human rights rely on secular norms and international consensus. The research recommends that Muslim countries adopt international human rights aspects compatible with Quranic and Sunnah principles, and that international organizations respect cultural and religious contexts to ensure effective and balanced implementation.

Ultimately, this study demonstrates that integrating the positive aspects of both systems can create a holistic human rights framework that is effective, culturally sensitive, and globally relevant. Such a synthesis promotes not only individual freedoms but also collective justice and social responsibility, offering a sustainable model for human rights protection in Muslim societies and beyond.