Indigenous Knowledge Systems within Egyptian Legal Practices: A Qualitative Exploration

Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) within legal practices have gained attention for their role in shaping local laws and dispute resolution mechanisms, particularly in contexts where formal legal systems are underdeveloped or inaccessible. The research employs a qualitative design involving in-depth interviews with legal practitioners, judges, and community leaders to gather insights into the intersection of traditional practices and modern legal frameworks in Egypt. Interviews revealed significant themes such as reliance on customary laws for resolving disputes (75%) and incorporation of oral history as evidence (80%). The study underscores the importance of integrating IKS into formal legal education to enhance understanding and acceptance within Egyptian society, while also highlighting the need for policy reforms that recognise these practices. Policy makers should consider developing training programmes for judicial officials on incorporating traditional knowledge systems into their decision-making processes. Educational institutions are encouraged to include elements of indigenous law in curricula.