ISTANBUL, October 19, 2023 – The 11th Islamic Economics Workshop, organized by the Islamic Economics Research Centre (IKAM) in partnership with the İLKE Foundation, successfully concluded at Istanbul 29 Mayis University from October 13 to 15, 2023. This year’s workshop focused on the vital theme of “Islamic Economics and Environment.”

Dr. Mustafa Afşin Sancar, the Director of IKAM, emphasized the growing significance of environmental concerns in his opening speech. He highlighted the paradox that while production maximization has been on the rise, human happiness hasn’t seen the same upward trend.

Lütfi Sunar, Chairman of the Board of Directors of ILKE, expressed his hopes that Islamic economics could provide pragmatic solutions for environmental challenges. He emphasized that when activities become sustainable and continuous, they tend to yield more benefits.

The NGO World Foundation Chairman, Mr. Zafar Iqbal, presented the “Barkat Model Project,” which demonstrated how this initiative, rooted in Islamic principles of “Mudarabah,” is making a positive impact on the lives of rural communities. The project was described as a self-sustainable model for poverty reduction and sustainable charity, with the potential for replication in areas where agriculture and livestock farming are prevalent.

The 11th Islamic Economics Workshop brought together researchers, scholars, and representatives from academia, NGOs, and various countries to explore human-centered solutions to the pressing issues at the intersection of Islamic economics and the environment. This collaborative effort aimed to chart a course toward a more sustainable and equitable future.

One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of the Islamic Economics Awards to accomplished individuals.

The workshop’s unique focus on environmental concerns within the context of Islamic economics reflects the growing recognition of the need for holistic and ethical solutions to address the world’s environmental challenges.