Men receive twice as much inheritance as women in Egypt

In Egypt, men typically inherit twice as much as women, a study finds.

Why it matters

  • Highlights gender inequality in inheritance laws based on Sharia principles.
  • Shows cultural and religious influences on inheritance practices.

By the numbers

  • 70% of respondents support sons inheriting twice as much as daughters.
  • Survey included 231 adult Muslims, with 41% women and 90% university educated.

The big picture

  • Gender inequality in inheritance is rooted in religious and cultural norms.
  • Similar attitudes exist in other countries with high religious affiliation.

What they're saying

  • Some argue that religious texts support this practice.
  • Others suggest men share inheritance with the family.
  • Skepticism about the study's bias.

Caveats

  • Survey sample may not represent the entire population.
  • Focuses on attitudes, not actual inheritance practices.

What’s next

  • Comprehensive reforms needed to address gender inequality in inheritance laws.