Under the grand theme “Strengthening Solidarity, Nurturing the Earth: Progressive Muslim Women’s Leadership for a Sustainable Civilization,” ICAS 2026 invites scholars, researchers, practitioners, and activists to contribute critical and forward-looking scholarship to this global conversation. This conference seeks to explore how progressive Muslim women’s leadership—particularly within and beyond ‘Aisyiyah—responds to contemporary challenges ranging from ecological crisis and digital transformation to social justice, global health, economic empowerment, and transnational solidarity. The selected sub-topics reflect the multidimensional character of ‘Aisyiyah as a historical movement, an intellectual tradition, and a living institution engaged with local and global realities. We welcome papers that are theoretically grounded, methodologically rigorous, and analytically rich. Contributions may be historical, empirical, conceptual, or interdisciplinary, as longContinue Reading

ICAS 2026 will be held at Universitas ‘Aisyiyah Yogyakarta (UNISA Yogyakarta)—a leading higher education institution rooted in the transformative legacy of ‘Aisyiyah. Located in the cultural heart of Yogyakarta, the campus offers a vibrant academic atmosphere where tradition and innovation meet. As the home of The Aisyiyah Center and various international research collaborations, UNISA provides an ideal setting for a global scholarly gathering. Its modern auditorium, fully equipped conference halls, and collaborative learning spaces are designed to support dynamic panels, keynote sessions, and cross-disciplinary dialogue. Beyond its facilities, the venue carries symbolic significance. Hosting ICAS 2026 at UNISA reflects the living spirit of ‘Aisyiyah as both a movement and an intellectual tradition. Participants will not only attendContinue Reading

ICAS 2026 proudly brings together distinguished invited speakers from various countries, reflecting the conference’s global reach and intellectual diversity. These scholars are not only internationally recognized in their respective fields, but also share a meaningful and longstanding connection with ‘Aisyiyah. Many of them have conducted in-depth research on the organization—exploring its history, social movements, women’s leadership, educational initiatives, and transformative contributions to Muslim societies. Their participation is therefore more than ceremonial. It represents an ongoing scholarly engagement with ‘Aisyiyah as a living movement—one that continues to shape discourses on gender, religion, social reform, and civil society. Through their insights, ICAS 2026 offers a unique space where academic reflection and organizational experience intersect, fostering deeper understanding and collaborativeContinue Reading

ICAS 2026—the 2nd International Conference on ‘Aisyiyah Studies—builds on more than a century of ‘Aisyiyah’s transformative work in education, health, and socio-economic empowerment, rooted in the ethos of Islam Berkemajuan (Progressive Islam). In a world marked by deepening polarization, widening inequality, disruptive technological shifts, and escalating ecological crises, the conference foregrounds ethical leadership and renewed solidarity as urgent civilizational needs. Through the theme “Strengthening Solidarity, Nurturing the Earth: Progressive Muslim Women’s Leadership for a Sustainable Civilization,” ICAS 2026 invites scholars, activists, and practitioners to rethink how women’s leadership can advance justice, peace, and sustainability in interconnected ways. Organized to commemorate ‘Aisyiyah’s 109th anniversary and to mark the centennial momentum of Suara ‘Aisyiyah, ICAS 2026 is envisioned asContinue Reading

Ani Zonneveld is a writer, singer, Grammy certified songwriter, founder and President of Muslims for Progressive Values (MPV) and founder of Alliance of Inclusive Muslims (AIM). Its missions are to inculcate a culture rooted in human rights in Muslim societies. Ani is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations; on the U.N. Inter-agency’s Faith Advisory Council, and was commissioned by the U.N. Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect to create an anti-hate speech workshop for Muslim communities. In 2023 she was selected as an “inspirational woman” in the LA Times. Ani co-authored a chapter titled “Transnational Progressive Islam: Theory, Networks, and Lived Experience” for a book titled “Handbook of Contemporary Islam and MuslimContinue Reading

The position of women in Islam has been a topic of intense debate and exploration for centuries. Understanding this multifaceted issue requires navigating the rich tapestry of Islamic texts, historical interpretations, and the diverse realities of Muslim women across the globe. This paper delves into the core principles outlined in the Quran and Sunnah (the teachings and practices of Prophet Muhammad) regarding women’s rights. It explores the interpretations and cultural practices that shape their experiences, and examines contemporary debates and reform movements.Continue Reading

The Global Conference of Women’s Rights in Islam which is held at Aisyiyah University Yogyakarta on 14-16 May 2024 is attended by participants from various countries. The following are the registered participants: Click the above picture to connect the list of participants!Continue Reading