ABSTRACT
The social roles played by Muslim organisations are influenced by Islamic teachings, the ways in which the religious tradition is organised and its relationships with states, invariably influenced by the historical, economic, geographical and cultural characteristics of the contexts in which they operate. In this chapter, the shared history of contemporary states and its influence on the subsequent engagement of Muslim organisations in social welfare activities are analysed with respect to the Indian sub-continent and Sub-Saharan Africa. The available research evidence is reviewed and gaps identified. Particular attention is given to research on the emerging Islamic microfinance sector. This review of traditional forms of Islamic giving and their organisational arrangements reveals some of their strengths and potential for improving welfare, but also some of their limitations, which are related partly to whether, in contemporary countries, Islam is a majority or minority religion. The latter has implications for national and international political dynamics and resource flows, both of which affect the scope for Muslim organisations to improve social welfare. Assessments of the outcomes of their involvement are lacking. However generally, their welfare activities seem to reinforce dominant values and social hierarchies rather than eradicating poverty or redistributing wealth.
