Dr. Irma MakharadzeIndependent Researcher, Tbilisi Institute of Asia and Africa |
Abstract
Dr. Makharadze analyzed how Islamic ethical principles can serve as a moral and structural basis for democratic governance. She highlighted the Qur’anic imperatives of shura, adl, and public accountability as deeply compatible with modern democratic norms.
However, she noted a stark dissonance between these ideals and political realities in many Muslim-majority states, where authoritarianism remains entrenched. Dr. Makharadze advocated for the integration of Islamic ethical frameworks into contemporary governance models as a means to promote dignity, inclusion, and long-term political stability. Her analysis called for a principled return to Islam’s foundational values to resist autocracy and enable democratic flourishing.