Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of keywords covered in the subsequent chapters of the book. This book is about the lived experiences of Acehnese women in the Indonesian province of Aceh who live under Islamic law. The enforcement of Islamic law has subjected women's sexuality, bodies and religiosity. It will show how Muslim women and male Muslim reformists at the local level are moved and influenced by the movements at the national level. The book contributes to the debate within the literature assessing the work of nongovernmental organization (NGOs). This book also considers how the study of local women's NGOs' responses to the implementation of Islamic law can shed light on how interactions between local women's NGOs and international donors affects local NGOs' programmes and activities. The introduction of sharia law made Islam a public discourse in Aceh, as the local elites seek a form of sharia that conforms with Acehnese adat and culture.