Religious arbitration in the UK

Posted on 28th November, 2006 by

BBC ‘Magazine’ feature: An end to one law for all?

A very interesting (and, I’m sure, controversial) feature on the largely little-known system of arbitration in the UK. The best-known example is the Jewish Beth Din, but similar systems exist among Somalis and other Muslims. The decisions, once both sides agree to its judgements, are binding in English law unless the judgements are “unreasonable”.

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  • Old Pickler

    Parallel legal systems are not a good idea. Everyone should be equal under the law.

  • muslim_gal

    Assalamu alikeum

    I have never heard or witnessed these somali courts existing in the U.K (not in london at least- and thats where the majority of somalis live). Im not saying that it might not happen or that my expriences with somalis are the be it and end all, but this is news to me.

    I know sometimes when things happen like arguments/disputes/fights (between different clans or sub-clans) the ‘elders’ come together and try and sort something out, but nothing ever legal as deciding the fate of someone in serious criminal matters or dishing out any punishments or verdicts!

    Maybe another british somali could clarify.