Lect. Dr. Haifa’ Mahmmoud Al-Ashqar, a lecturer in the Department of Special Education, Faculty of Education at Al-Zahraa University for Women, participated in the First International Scientific Conference on “Educational and Social Dimensions in the Legacy of Imam Zain Al-Abidin (peace be upon him)”. The said event was organised by Imam Zain Al-Abidin Foundation for Research and Studies, affiliated with Imam Hussein Holy Shrine in collaboration with the University of Wasit, held on 30–31 October 2024.

Dr. Al-Ashqar presented a research paper entitled: “The Role of Imams of Ahl Al-Bayt (peace be upon them) in Protecting the Rights of the Child from the Perspective of Iraqi Society: Imam Zain Al-Abidin (peace be upon him) as a Model”. The Lecturer managed to shed light on the origins and significance of children’s rights, tracing them back to the tragic events of Karbala in the year 561 AH, which revealed a profound deviation in the Islamic society established by the Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him and his progeny). Additionally, Imam Zain Al-Abidin (peace be upon him) sought to propose purposeful solutions for reforming and safeguarding society, recognising that true reform begins with the family as the primary social institution.

The research emphasised Imam Zain Al-Abidin’s (peace be upon him) insistence on children’s rights within the family, particularly the right to parental care, education, and upbringing grounded in Islamic ethics. The study underscored the vital significance of the first five years of a child’s life, during which the foundations of moral and intellectual development are laid, an investment that has profound positive implications for both the individual and the wider community.

Translated by Zahra’ Ala’, revised by Asst. Lect. Safa’ Al-Sadi