Synergies between the Circular Economy paradigm, Islamic finance and sustainable businesses provide the foundations for the  international conference organized by the Center for Islamic Economics and Finance at the College of Islamic Studies at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), part of Qatar Foundation. 

Against the backdrop of robust global debates on climate change, environmental degradation and related issues, the International Conference on Islamic Finance 2020 traces the evolution of circular economic systems. Participants will also explore how the Circular Economy incentivizes learning from nature in order to minimize and eliminate waste from business and economic practices. In doing so, the conference will consider how this emerging concept potentially facilitates more responsible societies, impactful business models and value-based financial strategies and policies. 

Taking place across two days from February 5-6, the International Conference on Islamic Finance 2020 will also offer distinctly Islamic perspectives on the Circular Economy. An eclectic mix of prominent and aspiring academics, established policymakers and ‘in the field’ practitioners will deliver a series of papers and provide critical analysis on a wealth of interrelated issues. These include the Islamic teachings and principles of relevance to the universal scientific law of Meezan (balance) which opposes economic, ecological and social imbalances. Convergence of Islamic finance and Circular Economy analysis, country-specific case studies, and other related studies  will also help to frame key topics and debates. 

Speaking ahead of the conference, Dr Syed Nazim Ali, Director of Research Division, CIS, said: “Holding this conference is important for a number of reasons. To begin, the Maqasid Al Shariah, Qatar National Vision 2030 and UN Sustainable Development Goals all emphasize the importance of multidimensional development and Circular Economy. It’s only right, therefore, that we consider how Islamic finance can shape and influence related practices. Like other countries, Qatar must also diversify its economy in order to tackle climate change and environmental challenges. With this in mind, we’re confident that the timing of the International Conference on Islamic Finance 2020 couldn’t be more perfect.

“That’s a view undoubtedly shared by the event’s main sponsor, the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), as well as its strategic partners: Qatar Central Bank; and the Ministry of Municipality and Environment. HBKU wants to thanks them all — including all speakers and moderators — in advance for what promises to be an engrossing and thought-provoking conference that frames Islam in a global context.”

The College of Islamic Studies regularly holds events to highlight its research activities and projects. For more information, please visit cis.hbku.edu.qa.