The College of Islamic Sciences at the University of Karbala hosted a master’s thesis defense by student Samraa Mahna Rabat Salman, entitled: “Women’s Assumption of Governmental Positions in Imami Jurisprudence – Security Positions as a Model (Presentation and Analysis)”.

The thesis addressed a contemporary jurisprudential issue that has stirred considerable debate in both academic and social circles: the participation of women in governmental positions, particularly in the security sector, from the perspective of Imami jurisprudence.

The researcher adopted an inductive and analytical methodology, combining description, critical analysis, and comparison of juristic opinions both past and present, while also employing a historical approach to trace the development of juristic stances on the issue.

The study aimed to investigate religious evidences and analyze various juristic interpretations, with a focus on the conditions and restrictions jurists placed on women assuming administrative and executive roles.

The thesis concluded that there is no definitive religious text prohibiting women from holding governmental positions in general, though some evidences stipulated male gender for specific roles such as judiciary and general governance. It further highlighted the diversity of Imami juristic opinions: a traditional view limiting women’s participation, and a modern perspective that permits broader involvement under clear religious guidelines—particularly in light of contemporary societal needs and developments.