UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, announced today a new milestone collaboration between its Refugee Zakat Fund and the International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA), an entity of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). In continuation of their support, IIFA will now serve as UNHCR’s Zakat Board, overseeing the external compliance review of the Refugee Zakat Fund, reinforcing UNHCR’s unwavering commitment to transparency and Sharia compliance.

Strengthening Compliance and Trust

This partnership builds on a five-year collaboration, enhancing Islamic philanthropy efforts for refugees. IIFA previously issued a fatwa in 2020, authorizing UNHCR’s collection and distribution of Zakat. Since 2017, compliance reviews have been conducted by the Tabah Foundation. With IIFA’s addition, UNHCR further strengthens governance, offering an added layers of trust for donors globally.

Maximizing Impact

Dr. Khaled Khalifa, Senior Advisor to the High Commissioner for Islamic Philanthropy and UNHCR’s Representative to the GCC countries, emphasized:

“This milestone in our partnership with IIFA underscores our unwavering commitment to Sharia compliance. It further solidifies UNHCR’s Refugee Zakat Fund as a trusted, verified, and compliant platform, enhancing its impact while ensuring the highest standards of transparency and governance.”

Prof. Dr. Koutoub Sano, IIFA’s Secretary-General, added: “UNHCR’s Refugee Zakat Fund represents a pioneering initiative in Islamic Philanthropy, ensuring that Zakat reaches those who need it most with full Sharia compliance and ethical governance. Our collaboration reinforces the importance of transparency, accountability, and adherence to Islamic principles in humanitarian efforts. This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to upholding the values of justice, compassion, and solidarity that lie at the heart of Islamic giving.”

Supporting Refugees in Need

Since its launch, the Refugee Zakat Fund has helped over 8.9 million refugees and displaced people, providing vital aid such as cash, food, shelter, healthcare, and education. Strengthened by partnerships with Islamic institutions like IIFA, UNHCR remains committed to ensuring every Zakat donation makes a tangible impact.

For updates on the Refugee Zakat Fund, visit our blog and stay connected through the Zakat App.