Transnational Zakat Management: Transformations in the Humanitarian Sector

Abstract In this commentary, we reflect on findings from our project examining Muslim humanitarianism, specifically how Muslim philanthropists and humanitarian actors influence and are influenced by their interactions with actors in the international humanitarian sector. We note a growing interest among dominant international humanitarian organizations, such as United Nations agencies, in Muslim philanthropy and Islamic social finance. Concurrently, Muslim philanthropists and humanitarian actors are increasingly asserting their presence in the international humanitarian field. Looking closer at zakat collection and management, we will explore how these interrelated trends mutually reinforce one another, driving transformation in the practices of both Muslim humanitarians and the wider humanitarian sector.