IOM launches ‘Islamic Philanthropy Fund’ to support vulnerable populations

This Ramadan, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) launched the Islamic Philanthropy Fund, marking a significant milestone in utilizing Islamic charitable giving to support some of the world’s most vulnerable populations.

Furthermore, with global crises worsening and human displacement on the rise, IOM is spearheading creative approaches to provide critical aid to more than 75 million individuals uprooted by conflict, disasters, and instability.

The IOM Islamic Philanthropy Fund (IPF) is a Shariah-compliant program focused on collecting and allocating Zakat and Sadaqah to assist vulnerable migrants and displaced people across the globe.

This worldwide effort seeks to involve partners and tap into resources from unconventional donors, focusing on all 57 Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) member states to tackle urgent global crises, especially in the MENA region.

In its initial year, the IPF is focusing on the Sudan Emergency Response, offering critical aid to displaced families, individuals stuck at borders, and at-risk communities requiring immediate food, water, shelter, and healthcare.

Since the crisis erupted, IOM has spearheaded relief efforts, delivering urgent life-saving support to more than 2.8 million individuals in Sudan and surrounding nations. In its debut year, the Islamic Philanthropy Fund is prioritizing cash aid for displaced families, people trapped at borders, and communities desperately needing humanitarian help amid the Sudan Emergency Response. The persistent conflict in Sudan has triggered the globe’s largest displacement crisis, with over 11.5 million internally displaced and nearly 30 million in urgent need of assistance.

Although the IPF is focusing on Sudan, IOM’s Ramadan campaign this year is raising funds globally for Syria, Yemen, and Somalia. In these uncertain times, families are relying on them, and they are dedicated to improving their lives. Through the Islamic Philanthropy Fund, IOM joins sister agencies in harnessing the impactful potential of faith-based giving, stated Mazen AboulHosn, IOM Kuwait’s Chief of Mission.

The Fund seeks to establish itself as a steady and enduring resource to aid migrant and displaced communities worldwide. By ensuring the safety and dignity of those affected by crises, it aims to create a lasting impact, equipping them with the necessary tools and support to recover and prosper.

To contribute to the Islamic Philanthropy Fund and explore more details about this effort, please visit: zakat.iom.int