Theoretical and Intellectual Review of Children’s Rights from an Islamic Perspective

Abstract

This study presents a theoretical and intellectual examination of children’s rights from an Islamic perspective. It analyses the comprehensive conception of children’s rights, which views the child not merely as an immature individual but as an independent being entitled to protection, development, education, health, and moral upbringing from the foetal stage through maturity. Drawing upon the Qur’an, Prophetic traditions (Sunnah), classical Islamic jurisprudence, and contemporary scholarship, the analysis demonstrates that Islamic teachings establish children’s rights upon a divine foundation that is compatible with, yet ethically deeper and more holistic than, modern international frameworks such as the 1989 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The discussion systematically explores the foundations of children’s rights in the Qur’an and Hadith, the core rights recognised in Islam including the rights to life, upbringing, protection, education and training, love, justice, equality, dignity, and personality development and the corresponding responsibilities of parents, society, educational institutions, and the state. Particular emphasis is placed on the child as a sacred trust (amānah) of Allah, the prohibition of harm (including abortion and gender-based discrimination), the obligation of breastfeeding, equitable education for both boys and girls, just treatment within the family, and the collective duty to safeguard orphans and vulnerable children. The study further situates these principles within the historical practices of Islamic civilisation through endowments (waqf), orphanages, and educational institutions—while addressing contemporary challenges such as digital exploitation, child labour, psychological well-being, and cyber risks. The analysis concludes that the Islamic framework constitutes a living, dynamic, and integrated paradigm that unites material, spiritual, moral, and social dimensions, thereby ensuring the all-round development of the child and contributing to social justice and stability.

Keywords: Children’s rights; Islamic perspective; Qur’an and Hadith; Right to life; Upbringing and protection; Education and training; Parental responsibilities; Gender equality; Dignity and personality development; Role of society and state

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21616954