Work

Examining the potential of Zakat in eradicating extreme poverty in Bangladesh in the context of SDG 1.1

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Eradicating extreme poverty, as outlined in Target 1.1 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), has remained an enormous challenge for Bangladesh since its independence in 1971. This study examines the potential of zakat, an obligatory form of Islamic charity, as a mechanism for addressing extreme poverty in the context of SDG 1.1. Drawing upon a cross-sectional survey, data were collected from 384 beneficiaries under the As-Sunnah Foundation’s self-reliant project, which utilizes zakat funds to empower individuals through sustainable livelihood initiatives. In addition to descriptive statistical analysis, a one-sample t -test was employed to determine whether the average living cost of beneficiaries after receiving support significantly exceeded the international poverty line threshold. The results reveal a statistically significant ( p < 0.001) increase in living costs above the poverty line, indicating the effectiveness of zakat in reducing extreme poverty in the country. These findings demonstrate the potential of well-administered zakat-based programs to contribute significantly to achieving SDG-1.1 and underline the value of integrating the zakat system within national poverty reduction strategies.

Source: Discover Sustainability

DOI: 10.1007/s43621-025-01913-3

Authors: Md Yasir Arafat Arman, Akib Hasan Rafi

Institution: Bangladesh Army International University of Science and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Religion, Society, and Development

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: No poverty, Reduced inequalities, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,390