Mishkath International Research Conference 2026

ZAKAT as a Primary Tool of Islamic Social Finance:
A Pathway to Financial Inclusion and Poverty Alleviation in Sri Lanka

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MIRC 2026
Colombo, Sri Lanka

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Ramada Colombo, Sri Lanka

Join distinguished scholars, thought leaders, and policy-makers at MIRC 2026 — offering a platform to connect Islamic ethical values with contemporary economic realities.

About the Conference

Why MIRC 2026?

The Mishkath International Research Conference 2026 provides a platform for scholars, policymakers, practitioners, and community leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue on the role of Zakat in socio-economic development of Sri Lanka. The conference aims to foster research exchange, collaborative discussions, and innovative solutions that connect Islamic ethical values with contemporary economic realities.

Zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam, is more than a religious duty—it is a powerful mechanism for promoting social justice, wealth redistribution, and community empowerment. In Sri Lanka, the lack of a unified national Zakat framework and formal institutional mechanisms has limited the collective impact of this vital instrument. The rationale for this conference is to explore these opportunities, address institutional gaps, and promote research-informed and practical strategies for integrating Zakat and Islamic social finance into Sri Lanka's socio-economic development agenda.

Conference Objectives

Financial Inclusion

To explore the role of Zakat within Islamic social finance as a mechanism for financial inclusion, promoting poverty alleviation, and equitable wealth distribution in Sri Lanka.

Platform for Sharing Experience

To provide a platform for scholars, policymakers, practitioners, and community leaders to share research findings, experiences, and best practices in Zakat governance and implementation.

Innovative Approaches

To examine innovative approaches and modern tools—such as digitalization and fintech solutions—that ensure transparency, accountability, and effective management.

National Development & Sustainable Goals

To assess the contribution of Zakat and Islamic social finance to national development priorities and their alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Recommendations

To develop actionable policy recommendations for strengthening institutional frameworks and integrating Zakat into Sri Lanka's broader socio-economic agenda.

Research Tracks

Zakat and Maqāṣid al-Sharī'ah: Aligning Spiritual Objectives with Socio-Economic Realities

Zakat as a Tool for Poverty Alleviation and Equitable Wealth Distribution

Zakat and Financial Inclusion: Bridging the Socio-Economic Divide

Economic Empowerment through Zakat and Islamic Social Finance

The Role of Zakat in National Economic Development

Zakat and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A Strategic Nexus

Zakat and the Socio-Economic Challenges of Muslim Minority in Sri Lanka

Inclusivity in Zakat: Engagement with Non-Muslim Beneficiaries

Historical Evolution and Contemporary Realities of Zakat Institutions in Sri Lanka

Governance and Institutional Challenges in Zakat Administration

Policy, Legal, and Strategic Frameworks for Strengthening Zakat Systems

Leveraging Technology and Innovation for Effective Zakat Collection and Distribution

Impact Analysis of Zakat Implementation in Sri Lanka: Measuring Socio-Economic Outcomes

Case Studies and Best Practices of Zakat Institutions

Other Contemporary Topics Related to Zakāt in Sri Lanka

An Open category for innovative research, emerging issues, and contextual analyses related to zakāt and Islamic social finance in the Sri Lankan context.

Conference Languages

Research papers will be accepted, and presentations may be delivered in the following languages.

English
Tamil
Sinhala

Important Dates

Mark your calendar and ensure your submission is received well ahead of each deadline.

01
Dec 15, 2025

Call for Papers

02
Jan 15, 2026

Abstract Submission Deadline

03
Jan 30, 2026

Notification of Abstract Acceptance

04
Apr 30, 2026

Full Paper Submission

05
May 30, 2026

Notification of Paper Acceptance

06
July 31, 2026

Submission of Camera-Ready Papers

07
July 31, 2026

Conference Registration

Sept 25, 26 & 27, 2026

Conference Dates

Our Partners

The Mishkath International Conference 2026 is organized by the Mishkath Research Institute (MRI) in strategic alliance with respected Local & International Institutions.