Dismantling Sharia Councils

This policy calls for the complete dismantling of Sharia councils in the United Kingdom. These bodies operate as parallel legal systems, exerting influence over marriage, divorce, and inheritance. They perpetuate discrimination, particularly against women, and undermine the fundamental democratic principle that all citizens are equal before the law. Their continued operation undermines the principle of “one law for all” and creates a parallel justice system, with women in particular bearing the cost. Legislation is needed to restore civil law as the sole authority in these areas.