Islamic Relief contributed to two influential symposiums on reducing poverty and sustainable development financing.
The Civil Society Policy Forum, which is run by the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF), was held in Washington, DC.
Addressing the event, Anwar Khan, President at Islamic Relief USA, drew on Islamic and humanitarian principles, noting that shared risk – which is central to Islamic financing – would increase the transparency, accountability and effectiveness of foreign lending assistance.
Anwar emphasised that it was critical to do no harm, pointing out that: “Foreign debt is the greatest contributor to poor countries being unable to afford basic living standards, which traps the poorest in an endless cycle of poverty and suffering.”
Islamic Relief also participated in a separate session covering the role of faith in the human capital project. Drawing on its extensive experience delivering development programmes around the world, and highlighted the enormous potential for faith organisations to drive positive change.
Sharif Aly, Chief Executive Officer at Islamic Relief USA, pointed out that Islamic Relief is growing vital human capital through supporting livelihoods, education, developing local capacity and through tackling harmful practices such as gender-based violence.
The Civil Society Policy Forum is part of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank Group spring and annual meetings, enabling civil society organisations to engage in dialogue and share ideas.
Original source: Islamic Relief
Published on 18 April 2019
