Analyzing the contribution of ZAKAT to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Abstract

Zakat as a social financial instrument in Islam, has a major role in supporting the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study aims to analyze the contribution of zakat to the achievement of several SDGs goals, especially those related to poverty reduction, education improvement, improvement of Health Services, and reduction of social inequality. By studying the practices of collecting and distributing zakat in different countries, the study identifies how zakat can contribute to improving the welfare of the poor, expanding access to basic services and empowering marginal groups. A qualitative approach was used in this study, by collecting data from various case studies and related literature sources. The results revealed that although zakat faces a number of challenges in its management and distribution, the potential for zakat to have a positive impact on the achievement of the SDGs, especially in reducing extreme poverty and social inequality, is very large. Therefore, innovation is needed in the zakat management system so that its impact is maximized in supporting the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals, both at the global and local levels.

Keywords: Zakat, productive zakat, SDGs