ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the political background of the introduction of Islamic law and how sharia law has been enforced through the establishment of a number of institutions. It describes the debate and responses that arise among the Acehnese, in particular women, against the introduction of sharia law as it has affected their lives. The chapter also shows how the enforcement of sharia law has triggered a new conversation, in particular amongst Acehnese women, of the need to understand how Islam guarantees women's rights. Critiques often depict the poor performance of institutions established to support the implementation of Islamic law as leading to the discriminatory practices and the poor implementation of Islamic law. The chapter demonstrates that the implementation of Islamic law has progressed alongside Aceh's transition to special autonomy. It explains the socio-economic circumstances of Aceh as it undergoes transition from conflict and is reconstructed following the tsunami.
