The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and INGO Muslim Hands have signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Geneva to establish a framework for channelling Zakat and Sadaqah into humanitarian assistance, protection and recovery for people affected by crises. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that faith-based giving reaches vulnerable communities in a principled, transparent and impactful way.
Under the framework, Muslim Hands will lead donor engagement and community outreach to mobilize Zakat and Sadaqah, while IOM will design and deliver humanitarian programmes, including lifesaving aid, protection and recovery support, in line with humanitarian standards, donor requirements and its internal procedures. The partnership will also include technical guidance, field support, impact updates and close collaboration to ensure compliance with Islamic giving principles.
"This framework speaks to the growing importance of faith-aligned humanitarian partnerships that are both principled and practical," said Mohammed Abdiker, IOM Chief of Staff. "By bringing together trusted community outreach and IOM's operational expertise, this cooperation aims to connect Islamic charitable giving with accountable support for people affected by crisis."
Dr. Basel Alkhder, Global Emergency Lead at Muslim Hands, said: "Muslim Hands is committed to relieving suffering and helping build sustainable futures for vulnerable communities. Through this cooperation with IOM, we hope to strengthen pathways for Zakat and Sadaqah to reach people in need with transparency, dignity and care."
The MoU recognizes that people affected by humanitarian crises may fall within established Quranic categories for Zakat, including the poor, the needy, those in debt, and people who are displaced or stranded.
