The Implementation of Sharia Law as the Gender Equality Manifestation in the Province of Aceh: Analysis of Qanun No. 6 of 2009 Concerning the Protection and Empowerment of Women

Abstract

This study aims to observe the position of Acehnese women by analyzing the values ​​of Sharia Law through the level of public compliance. Gender equality in the public sector can be seen by comparing the Acehnese women position in the RI-GAM conflict, after the peace, and after the implementation of Sharia Law concerning the protection and empowerment of women. This study uses the theory of liberal feminism because it takes the inequalities of classical gender ideology as the starting point of problem formulation. In addition, this study also uses the concept of gender equality and the ideology of women's liberation based on Islamic perspectives to investigate Qanun concerning women as the advocacy of women rights in the law, or also known as Feminist Jurisprudence (a court defending women rights). This research uses the qualitative method with case study approach. Data and information collection was through interview, documentation, and observation. Informant determination technique in this research used Purposive and Snowball Sampling. This approach is expected to examine the aspects of gender equality issues. The regional regulation in the province of Aceh and the stipulation of Qanun concerning the protection and empowerment of women is due to gender inequality experienced by women. Gender equality is applied in Aceh's Sharia Law to achieve a fair condition between men and women in their opportunities and rights as human beings. Consequently, Qanun No. 6 of 2009 is regulated in relation to the role and participation of women to be capable in politic, economy, social, culture, defense, education, national security, and equality in enjoying the development result. In the implementation process, however, several obstacles from various parties occur.

Keywords: Sharia Law, Gender Equality, Qanun No. 6 of 2009, the Province of Aceh