Western Democracy in an Islamic State: Reconciling Ideological Framework through Real Issues

Abstract

The interplay between Western democracy and Islamic governance remains a pivotal yet contentious discourse in political theory. This research examines the compatibility of Western democratic principles—popular sovereignty, secularism, and individual rights—with the foundational tenets of an Islamic state, which emphasize divine sovereignty (hakimiyyah), Shariah-based legislation, and the integration of religion into public life. Through qualitative analysis of scholarly works, constitutional frameworks (e.g., Pakistan, Iran, Malaysia), and historical precedents (e.g., Medina Charter, Rashidun Caliphate), the study identifies key tensions in sovereignty, secularism, theocracy, delegated legislation, and human rights. While Islamic governance shares consultative (shura) and republican values with democracy, irreconcilable differences emerge in the domains of divine vs. popular sovereignty and the role of religion in legislation. The paper concludes that democratic mechanisms, such as elected assemblies and rights protections, can coexist within Islamic frameworks if adapted to prioritize Shariah principles. However, secularism and absolute popular sovereignty remain incompatible with Islamic theological foundations. The findings underscore the necessity of contextualizing democracy within Islamic historical and theological paradigms to foster dialogue rather than ideological imposition.