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 as a dynamic intellectual and action-oriented forum that generates policy recommendations, scholarly collaboration, and lasting networks. The conference will be held on Thursday, 11 June 2026, in a hybrid format at the Auditorium of Universitas ‘Aisyiyah (UNISA) Yogyakarta and via an online platform. Its core purpose is to provide a global academic platform for sharing research, ideas, and best practices on ‘Aisyiyah and progressive Muslim women’s movements in responding to today’s global challenges.
Introduction
‘Aisyiyah, the oldest and most influential modernist Muslim women’s organization in Indonesia, has for more than a century pioneered efforts to advance civilization through holistic engagement in education, health, and socio-economic empowerment. Its initiatives extended beyond acts of charity to become a transformative social movement that reshaped cultural norms, institutional practices, and the position of women in both domestic and public spheres. Rooted in the principles of Islam Berkemajuan (Progressive Islam), ‘Aisyiyah has continually demonstrated an adaptive, critical, and visionary character—capable of addressing the injustices of the colonial period, navigating the complexities of post-independence nation-building, and embracing the challenges of globalization and the digital age. Its trajectory illustrates how religious values can be reinterpreted dynamically to foster gender equality, social justice, and civic participation, making ‘Aisyiyah not only a pioneer in Indonesia but also a reference point for global Muslim women’s movements seeking models of progressive engagement.
Contemporary women and humanity at large are confronted with multifaceted and intensifying challenges that are global in scale and immediate in impact—ranging from disruptive technological change and shifting socio-political landscapes, to widening economic inequalities and deepening ecological crises that threaten the very survival of communities and ecosystems. These realities are no longer abstract; they are visible in the growing polarization of societies, the erosion of mutual trust, the vulnerability of marginalized groups, the fragility of democratic institutions, and the increasing frequency of climate-related disasters that devastate both human life and natural environments. The urgency of these interconnected crises underscores the need for fresh paradigms of leadership and solidarity, particularly from women’s movements that integrate moral, spiritual, social, and ecological dimensions into a coherent vision for civilizational renewal.
Such complexities demand more than technical or policy solutions; they call for ethical leadership, inclusive solidarity, and visionary strategies that can weave together the moral, social, and ecological dimensions of human existence. In this context, the urgency of the conference theme becomes evident: it underscores the need for progressive Muslim women’s leadership as a force that not only addresses immediate social and environmental concerns but also reimagines the foundations of a just and sustainable civilization. By situating Aisyiyah’s century-long legacy within these global dynamics, ICAS 2026 underscores the movement’s enduring relevance and its capacity to generate transformative insights and practices. Through the theme “Strengthening Solidarity, Nurturing the Earth: Progressive Muslim Women’s Leadership for a Sustainable Civilization”, the conference emphasizes how historical experience can inspire innovative responses to the urgent demands of contemporary civilization.
This topic is deliberately chosen to respond to two interrelated global crises: the erosion of social cohesion, marked by polarization, conflict, and the rise of identity-based fragmentation; and the escalating ecological crisis that threatens planetary sustainability and human security. “Strengthening Solidarity” underscores ‘Aisyiyah’s enduring calling to build bridges of trust, empathy, and cooperation across cultural, religious, and national boundaries, while also resisting forces of exclusion and intolerance that undermine social harmony. “Nurturing the Earth” highlights the organization’s evolving commitment to environmental justice, ecological ethics, and sustainable practices, situating ecological stewardship not only as a technical necessity but also as a spiritual and moral imperative rooted in Islamic teachings. The emphasis on women’s leadership affirms the conviction that women’s agency, when grounded in ethical and progressive Islamic values, is not supplementary but central to shaping a just, peaceful, and enduring global civilization. By linking solidarity with ecology, the theme calls for a holistic vision of civilization in which social cohesion and environmental sustainability are mutually reinforcing pillars of the future.
ICAS 2026 is organized to commomerate ‘Aisyiyah’s 109th anniversary, also as a strategic momentum to commemorate 100 years of Suara ‘Aisyiyah magazine—a medium that has served as a historical witness, a vehicle for literacy, and a channel for progressive women’s thought. Also, this conference is a part of the strategic roadmap toward the 49th ‘Aisyiyah Muktamar/Congress in 2027, ICAS 2026 is envisioned not merely as a ceremonial event but as a dynamic intellectual and activist forum. It will provide space for rigorous reflection on Aisyiyah’s historical trajectory, critical engagement with contemporary challenges, and the articulation of forward-looking visions for progressive Muslim women’s movements at both local and global levels. The conference aspires to produce concrete outcomes in the form of policy recommendations, scholarly collaborations, and action-oriented networks. It is expected to convene a diverse constellation of scholars, researchers, activists, and practitioners worldwide—enabling them to engage in constructive dialogue, forge enduring partnerships, and contribute collectively to the production of transformative knowledge and the design of innovative practices that advance justice, gender equality, peace, and ecological sustainability for humanity and the natural world.
Objectives
General Purpose:
To provide a global academic platform for disseminating research findings, ideas, and best practices related to the role of ‘Aisyiyah and progressive Muslim women’s movements in addressing global civilizational challenges.
Specific Objectives:
- To explore the historical and contemporary contributions of ‘Aisyiyah in education, health, law, economy, and politics at local, national, and international levels.
- To analyze challenges and opportunities for progressive Muslim women’s movements amid global issues such as climate change, digital transformation, and social justice.
- To formulate research agendas and strategic actions for ‘Aisyiyah in preparation for the 2027 Congress and in response to future civilizational needs.
- To strengthen collaborative networks among academics, activists, and ‘Aisyiyah leaders worldwide.
- To produce high-quality academic outputs in the form of indexed proceedings, special journal issues, and an edited volume.
Date and Venue
- Date: Thursday, 11 June 2026
- Venue: Auditorium, Universitas ‘Aisyiyah (UNISA) Yogyakarta & Online Platform (Hybrid Conference).
Participants
The conference will engage approximately 500 participants (100 onsite and 400 online), including:
- Academics, researchers, and students (domestic and international).
- Leaders and cadres of ‘Aisyiyah and Muhammadiyah at all levels.
- Civil society activists, NGOs, and representatives of international organizations.
- Policymakers, government officials, and practitioners.
- The general public with an interest in women’s and Islamic studies.
Keynote and Invited Speakers
Keynote Speakers (to be confirmed):
- Keynote Speaker I: Prof. Brian Yuliarto, Ph.D., Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Indonesia)
- Keynote Speaker II: Dr. Apt.Salmah orbayinah, M.Kes., Chair of PP ‘Aisyiyah
Invited Speakers:
- Prof. Dr. Siti Ruhaini Dzuhayatin (Diplomat, Ambassador to Uzbekistan and Kirgizstan, and Professor of Gender & Human Rights)
- Prof. Ezra Chitando (Professor of History and Phenomenology of Religion at the University of Zimbabwe, Faith to Action Network)
- Prof. Mark Woodward (Professor of Anthropology in Arizona State University)
- Prof. Nelly van Doorn-Harder (Professor of Religious Studies at Wake Forest University, North Carolina)
- Claire-Marie Hefner, Ph.D (Assistant Professor of Cultural Anthropology at Manhattanville College in Purchase, NY)
- Prof. Dr. Siti Syamsiyatun (UIN Sunan Kalijaga, Indonesia, Professor of Islamic & Gender studies)
- Prof. Mitsuo Nakamura (Professor Emeritus of Anthropology at Chiba University, Expert on Muhammadiyah)
- Prof. Kim Hyung-Jun (Professor in the Department of Cultural Anthropology at Kangwon National University, South Korea)
- Hisako Nakamura, MA (Japanese anthropologist and academic)
- Prof. Andari Wuri Astuti, MPH., Ph.D (Professor of Midwifery Studies, UNISA Yogyakarta)
Moderator:
- Dr. Askuri, M.Si. (Head of the Aisyiyah Center (TAC) at UNISA Yogyakarta)
- Dati Fatimah, MA. (LPPA Pimpinan Pusat Aisyiyah)
- Dr. Witriani, M.Hum. (LPPA Pimpinan Pusat Aisyiyah)
- Prof. Wantonoro, Ph.D. (Lecturer at UNISA Yogyakarta)
- UAD/UMY (to be confirmed)
Topic and Sub-Topics (Call for Papers)
The grand topic of this conference is “Strengthening Solidarity, Nurturing the Earth: Progressive Muslim Women’s Leadership for a Sustainable Civilization”.
Papers are invited on the main topic, with focus (but not limited) to the following sub-topics:
- History, Thought, and Movements: The legacy of ‘Aisyiyah women’s leadership in nation-building.
- Women and Ecological Justice: Theological perspectives and ‘Aisyiyah’s practices in climate change mitigation and environmental activism (eco-jihad).
- Da‘wah and Digital Transformation: Innovations, opportunities, and challenges of ‘Aisyiyah in cyberspace.
- Health, Well-being, and Family Resilience: Responses to global health issues, stunting, mental health, and shifting gender roles.
- Economic Empowerment and Social Justice: Social entrepreneurship, green economy, and ‘Aisyiyah’s role in poverty alleviation.
- Law, Politics, and Citizenship: Advocacy for women and children’s rights and strengthening democracy.
- Cross-Border Networks: ‘Aisyiyah’s role in diplomacy, global peacebuilding, migration, and interfaith dialogue.
- Media and Literacy: The role of Suara ‘Aisyiyah and media in shaping progressive Muslim women’s discourse.
- Empowering for Vulnerable Society : Elderly, Disabilities and Minority Group.
Important Dates (Timeline)
- Call for Papers Launch: February 2026
- Abstract Submission Deadline: 31 March 2026
- Abstract Acceptance Notification: 07 April 2026
- Full Paper Submission Deadline: 15 May 2026
- Regular Registration: 07 April- 30 May 2026
- Conference Day: 11 June 2026
Submission and Registration
- Abstract and Full Paper Submission Link
- Full Paper Template
- Registration Link as Participants (offline participants max. 200; online participants is unlimited)
Publication
All papers from this conference have the opportunity to be published free of charge in the Journal of Aisyiyah Studies.
Tentative Program
| TIME | PROGRAM | PIC |
| 07:30–08:30 | Registration & Coffee Morning (including exhibition of ‘Aisyiyah programs and works) | Committee |
| 08:30–09:30 | Opening Ceremony Qur’an Recitation, National Anthem, Mars ‘Aisyiyah, Committee Report | MC Prof. Alimatul Qibtiyah, Ph.D |
| 09:30–09.45 | Keynote Session I The Strategic Role of Higher Education and Scientific Innovation in Realizing a Sustainable Civilization: Collaboration Between Government and Progressive Women’s Movements | Prof. Brian Yuliarto, Ph.D. Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology |
| 09:45–10:00 | Keynote Session II ‘Aisyiyah in its Second Century: Strengthening Human Solidarity and Nurturing the Earth as a Movement of Progressive Islam | Dr. Apt. Salmah Orbayinah, M.Kes. Chair of PP ‘Aisyiyah |
| 10:00–12:00 | Plenary Session By Selected Invited Speakers (TBD) | Names of Invited Speakers to be decided |
| 12:00–13:30 | Lunch Break & Cultural Performance (LSBO PP ‘Aisyiyah) | |
| 13:30–15:00 | Parallel Panel Sessions Invited Speakers and Presenters (paper presentations by participants) | Selected Papers |
| 15:00–15:30 | Coffee Break & Networking | |
| 15:30–16:00 | Conference Summary & Recommendations | Steering Committee |
| 16:00–16:15 | Closing Ceremony (Best Presenter Award, Closing Remarks, Final Prayer) | Committee |
| 16:15–16:30 | Group Photo & Informal Networking | Committee |
Organizers and Committees
Main Organizers:
- Research and Development Institute of ‘Aisyiyah (LPPA), Central Board of ‘Aisyiyah
- The ‘Aisyiyah Center, Universitas ‘Aisyiyah Yogyakarta
In Collaboration with:
- Universitas Ahmad Dahlan, Yogyakarta
- Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta
- Majelis Diktilitbang (Council for Higher Education, Research and Development) PP ‘Aisyiyah
- Muhammadiyah and ‘Aisyiyah Higher Education Network (PTMA)
- Suara ‘Aisyiyah
- National and international strategic partners
Committees:
- Patron: Central Board of ‘Aisyiyah
- Scientific Committee (Paper Review & Selection): [names as listed]
- Organizing Committee: (to be announced)
- Administration & Finance: [names as listed]
Closing
This Terms of Reference (TOR) serves as the primary guideline for all stakeholders in preparing and implementing the 2nd International Conference on ‘Aisyiyah Studies (ICAS) 2026. Inspired by a century of Suara ‘Aisyiyah’s enlightening spirit, the conference aspires to succeed in generating transformative ideas and strengthening Aisyiyah’s contribution to building a just and sustainable global civilization.
Contact:
- Email: aisyiyahcenter@unisayogya.ac.id
- Website: aisyiyahstudies.org
- M. Shodiq +62 812-5989-7509
- Tasya Danela +62 813-5031-6126
