Mobilizing zakat (almsgiving) funds to support refugee microenterprise pogroms: A proposed conceptual model

Abstract

This chapter examines the prospects and challenges of using zakah as a source of funding in microenterprise support programs for refugees. According to the literature, lack of funds represents a fundamental obstacle in supporting refugees' livelihood in particular in microenterprises programs. Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam. All Muslims have to pay 2.5% of their wealth every year to the poor and needy. Refugees represent one of the main beneficiaries of zakah. Recently the UNHCR has established a zakah fund to mobilize zakah funds to help refugees. This chapter argues that instead of assisting refugees with cash money, zakat funds or at least part of the zakat funds can be used to provide microcredit grants to support the refugees and help them to help themselves. Despite all the challenges of microfinance programs in particular in the context of refugees, well-designed microfinance programs can provide a more sustainable solution to refugees in particular those trapped in protracted situations.