Exploring Liberal and Secular Muslim Majority Countries

The term 'liberal' often implies a society that prioritizes individual rights, freedom of expression, and religious tolerance. Meanwhile, 'secular' suggests a government and society that do not give preference to any particular religious belief, though it doesn’t necessarily mean atheism.

ALBANIA: A Rare Blend of Secularism and Liberalism

Among Muslim-majority countries, only a handful meet the dual criteria of being both liberal and secular. Albania stands out as one such country. Although its Constitution guarantees secularism, practices sometimes lag behind the written law. However, Albania's commitment to these values has made it one of the 17 most gender-equal countries according to the World Economic Forum's Gender Gap Index. This commitment to gender equality is not a mere formality but a tangible achievement that reflects the country's progress in empowering women.

OTHER SIGNS OF LIBERALISM AND SECULARISM

While Albania is the shining beacon, other Balkan countries like Kosovo are not quite as liberal. Despite having a secular Constitution, Kosovo's society can still exhibit conservative tendencies. Moving eastward, particularly into Central Asia, the attitudes tend to become more conservative and less developed, especially in countries like Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, which are oppressive dictatorships. In contrast, countries such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, while officially secular, reflect varying degrees of religious influence and liberal practices.

BANGLADESH: A Secular State with a Twist

Bangladesh offers a unique perspective on secularism. While it is not a fully secular state, it has made significant strides in cultural and social liberalization. In a country where 90% of the population is Muslim, clothing styles like sarees and Mexican dresses are common and freely worn, reflecting a blend of cultural identities. Despite certain conservative viewpoints, the government has prioritized gender equality, with Bangladesh ranking among the most gender-equal countries for the last 14 years according to the World Economic Forum. This effort has been bolstered by the re-election of secular leader Sheikh Hasina, who has governed the country for two decades.

IMPLICATIONS AND CHALLENGES

The presence of these countries in the list of liberal and secular Muslim-majority states highlights the diversity within the Muslim world. It challenges the common perception that Muslim-majority countries are inherently conservative. However, it also underscores the challenges these countries face in maintaining these values, especially in the face of conservative pressures.

Conclusion

The journey towards liberal and secular ideals is not without its challenges, but countries like Albania and to an extent Bangladesh demonstrate that it is possible. These nations offer valuable lessons in cultural and social integration, proving that a diverse society can coexist with both religious respect and individual freedoms.