Muslim Personal Law in South Africa: Evolution and Future Status, the first South African book on the topic of Muslim personal law, introduces readers to the debate on the awarding of unique rights to specific communities. The recognition of Muslim personal law or Muslim family law has provoked debate within and beyond the Muslim community and has attracted the attention of religious scholars, academics and lawyers.

The contributors to this volume touch on constitutional issues, concerns with the application of Muslim personal law by our courts, and the conflict between supporters and opponents of the draft Bill on Muslim Marriages. The non-recognition of Muslim marriages has compelled Muslim women who have suffered the dire consequences of divorce, maintenance and custody to approach the courts for relief.

If Muslim personal law were to be recognised by the state, to what extent would it protect the rights of women? Will recent judgments establish precedents that might prove to be at odds with the draft Bill? This book provides fascinating insight into the evolution and prospects of Muslim personal law in South Africa.