Islamic Relief has joined the faith community and World Bank to commit to ending extreme poverty by 2030.
Our faith inspires us to work towards ending indignity and injustice across the world. Extreme poverty is a direct attack on the dignity of those that live in it. God says that He has “bestowed dignity on the progeny of Adam” [Quran 17:70].
Islamic Relief also believes that the existence of extreme poverty is socially unjust since the world has the economic and technological tools to prevent it. Islamic teachings strongly urge Muslims to uphold social justice.
As Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “Whoever sees something evil should change it with his hand. If he cannot, then with his tongue; and if he cannot do even that, then in his heart, though that is the least of faith.” [Muslim 49].
At a time when much poverty is being caused by conflict carried out by groups claiming religious justification, Islamic Relief believes faith also provides some answers to help solve widespread injustice and exclusion.
Ending Extreme Poverty: A Moral and Spiritual Imperative was drawn up by faith leaders and organisations across the world in support of the World Bank’s new dual goals. The pledge, announced at the World Bank’s spring meetings in April 2015, highlights the role of faith communities in ending poverty, and the responsibility of faith leaders and faith organisations in working towards this goal.
Passion and commitment
Dr Mohamed Ashmawey, CEO of Islamic Relief, said: “Islamic Relief is recognised for its tireless work in tackling injustice globally. Faith encourages passion and commitment in people towards a shared purpose and, as a Muslim organisation, we stand in solidarity alongside the world’s most vulnerable people. We are inspired by our faith and work with other faith organisations to lift our brothers and sisters out of poverty. We urge others to join our commitment.”
As a Muslim organisation, Islamic Relief is inspired by faith and teachings from the Quran and Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). Quranic verse clearly urges Muslims to forbid evil and do good.
Dr Muhtari Aminu-Kano, senior policy advisor – poverty reduction at Islamic Relief, helped shape the pledge. He said: “In too many parts of the world, people are prevented from reaching their potential because of the poverty that restricts them generation after generation. We believe 2015 is a key year, and have committed to renewed action, working with people, raising people’s dignity, mitigating climate change and combating inequality and exclusion.”
Join the movement, by tweeting #Faith2EndPoverty