Aurat March To Go Ahead In Islamabad ‘Without Permission’: Activist Dr Farzana Bari
New Age Islam News Bureau
8 March 2025
· Aurat March To Go Ahead In Islamabad ‘Without Permission’: Activist Dr Farzana Bari
· French Court Upholds Ban On Hijab For Lawyers
· Sheikha Fatima Says Women Play A Fundamental Role In The UAE's Progress
· Queen of Malaysia Extends Greetings On International Women’s Day 2025
· Riyadh Air’s All-Female Engineering Program Propels Saudi Women To New Heights
· Iranian Authorities Crack Down On Architecture Awards Over Hijab
· Unesco Calls For Restoration Of Women And Girls’ Rights In Afghanistan On International Women’s Day
· Women Are ‘First Madrasah’ — Serve As Backbone Of Families, Society, And Malaysia’s Progress: Dy PM
· Yunus Honours Outstanding Women With ‘Indomitable Women’s Award-2025’
· Empowering Women: A Strategic Imperative To Counter Islamic Radicalism
· The Impact Of Muslim Women’s Zakat Fund One Year On
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islam-women-feminism/aurat-march-islamabad-dr-farzana-bari/d/134815
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Aurat March To Go Ahead In Islamabad ‘Without Permission’: Activist Dr Farzana Bari
March 8, 2025
ISLAMABAD: The organisers of Aurat March in the capital vowed on Friday to go ahead with their planned event, and hold a rally from the National Press Club to D-Chowk today (Saturday), despite not receiving formal permission from the administration.
“We will have our show outside the National Press Club as per previous years and will try to march towards D-Chowk to mark the occasion [of International Women’s Day],” rights activist Dr Farzana Bari told Dawn on Friday night.
Dr Bari, who is also one of the main organisers of the march, said they had submitted a formal application to the Islamabad administration months ago, seeking permission to hold the march from NPC to D-Chowk, but had not received a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) for the event so far.
She said the march organisers had also written to PM Shehbaz Sharif, requesting him to direct the Islamabad administration to issue an NOC for the event.
Instead, Dr Bari said, the administration had been asking them to postpone the event in view of the holy month of Ramazan.
She said the organisers had already decided to mark the event with simplicity, without any music or other fanfare, in order to respect sanctity of the holy month.
However, she said, it would not be possible for them to surrender their right to observe the day, which came around only once a year.
She said they had given a call for participants to gather in front of the press club at 1pm and would “make an attempt to march towards D-Chowk” around 4pm.
In their open letter posted to Instagram, the march’s organisers had informed the premier that despite countless efforts seeking an NOC for the past six years, they were “denied the safety and right to protest”.
“In the past, our organisers have faced brutalisation in the hands of religious fundamentalist groups, police and Islamabad administration, sending a very negative message to the international community regarding [the] status of women’s rights in Pakistan,” the letter said.
Source:dawn.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.dawn.com/news/1896557/aurat-march-to-go-ahead-in-islamabad-without-permission
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French Court Upholds Ban On Hijab For Lawyers
March 7, 2025
France’s highest administrative court, the Council of State, has upheld a decision banning lawyers from wearing visible symbols, including religious ones such as the hijab.
The ruling follows an objection from the French Bar Association, which challenged a 2023 decision by the National Bar Association prohibiting lawyers from wearing any distinguishing symbols while on duty.
The Bar Association argued that the restriction undermined lawyers’ independence. Despite the challenge, the court maintained the ban, reinforcing France’s commitment to secularism in professional settings.
Source:shiawaves.com
https://shiawaves.com/english/news/120156-french-court-upholds-ban-on-hijab-for-lawyers/
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Sheikha Fatima Says Women Play A Fundamental Role In The Uae's Progress
March 08, 2025
Sheikha Fatima praised the role women play in society across the UAE. Photo: Nama
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Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, has hailed the vital role that women perform in ensuring the Emirates continues to advance.
Speaking to The National, her remarks were made as the world celebrates International Women's Day on Saturday, an event she said embodies the world's appreciation of the role of women and their achievements across various fields.
“I proudly and respectfully salute all women, and especially the daughters of the Emirates who have achieved unprecedented successes in all spheres,” said Sheikha Fatima. “Their significant participation in decision-making and accomplishments has made them fundamental partners in the comprehensive development process in our beloved country.”
Today, she added, was an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to continue that progress by supporting women to enhance the UAE's development and create a bright future for coming generations. This support, added Sheikha Fatima, would be created by proper preparation, enabling further opportunities for women and leveraging resources in their favour to make the most of their diverse talents and capabilities.
Sheikha Fatima also said that women were an inspiration, state news agency Wam reported her as saying on Friday evening.
“On this day, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to my dear daughters for their dedication and efforts in their honourable journey of building the society and shaping the future,” she said.
“I urge them to continue working with determination and ambition, constantly striving for excellence, as they are the foundation of a nation’s progress and development. Every year, you remain a source of inspiration. Every year, you grow stronger. And every year, women in the UAE and around the world continue their journey toward a brighter future.”
Source:thenationalnews.com
https://www.thenationalnews.com/news/uae/2025/03/08/sheikha-fatima-says-women-play-a-fundamental-role-in-the-uaes-progress/
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Queen of Malaysia Extends Greetings On International Women’s Day 2025
BERNAMA
08-03- 2025
KUALA LUMPUR: Her Majesty Raja ZarithSofiah, Queen of Malaysia, today extended her warmest wishes to all women in Malaysia, in celebration of International Women’s Day 2025.
With this year’s theme, ‘WanitaBeraspirasiMembinaLegasi’, Her Majesty expressed her deep appreciation for women, recognising them as the pillars of their families, society, and the nation.
The Queen also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of women, not only within the family unit but across various professional fields.
“The ingenuity and wisdom of women in overcoming challenges make them a source of inspiration, in building a meaningful legacy for future generations.
“I also pray that every woman remains resilient and passionate in all her pursuits,” she said in a post on the official Facebook page of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia.
Source:thesun.my
https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/queen-extends-greetings-on-international-women-s-day-2025-AC13775072
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Riyadh Air’s All-Female Engineering Program Propels Saudi Women To New Heights
JASMINE BAGER
March 08, 2025
RIYADH: As the world celebrates International Women’s Day on March 8, Riyadh Air stands as a symbol of progress, championing gender diversity in aviation.
The airline, set to launch operations later this year, is not only building a world-class carrier but also breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
One testament to this commitment is its aircraft maintenance engineering program, which welcomed its first entirely female cohort — 27 in total — one year ago.
Selected from thousands of applicants, their participation underlines Riyadh Air’s dedication to diversity, inclusion and workforce development, in line with Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of empowering women.
Arab News spoke with three of them — Shahad Al-Salmi, Hala Al-Zahrani and Alkhuzran Al-Roshaidan.
Al-Salmi, a 24-year-old from Makkah and a physics major at Umm Al-Qura University, described the program as an unprecedented opportunity.
“To go to college every day and have an aircraft outside of our classroom — it’s an incredible feeling,” she said. “I think the reason Riyadh Air took this step is, the CEO Tony [Douglas], he says it all the time: ‘We don’t have a heritage that holds us back.’ And I think they went with women specifically because they want to push the labor market further and provide more opportunities. They want something fresh. They want to say, ‘We are here to change the industry for the entire country.’ And that’s a powerful message for all of us.”
Al-Salmi also highlighted the sacrifices many of the trainees had made, including herself: “Most of us came from outside Riyadh. We left our families and our loved ones for this opportunity, because not only do we believe in it, but our families also believe in it.”
Al-Zahrani, a 19-year-old from Jeddah, recalls her pride on finding out she had been chosen.
“Knowing I was going to be the first in the field as a woman — and a Saudi, as well — was a very big motivation,” she told Arab News. “I think it’s really essential and crucial for us to be a part of history. That’s what they’re trying to do, not only in Saudi but worldwide. It’s very nice to know that we’re a part of that.
“We are going to be the first, we are going to be pioneers, and that’s scary and nice at the same time. But I think the nice overpowers the scary part, thanks to all the assistance we are getting.”
Al-Roshaidan, a 21-year-old from Al-Ahsa with a degree in computer science from King Faisal University, sees the program as part of a larger movement.
“Even beyond being a pioneer, it’s being part of the vision for Saudi Vision 2030. That’s amazing,” she said.
Eager to explore various roles within aviation, she added: “I want to try everything that I can try with this, like management, [being a] technician — everything. I really like to challenge myself and I think it will make things so much easier and provide so many opportunities. I’m very honored to be here.”
On the gender imbalance when it comes to aircraft maintenance, Al-Roshaidan said: “It’s not only in Saudi Arabia, but the world; maintenance is male-dominated. I think it makes me appreciate even more that they [Riyadh Air] want to do something. The main thing is opening doors for women. It feels like being a part of the history of women empowerment.”
Although Al-Roshaidan’s family had some initial concerns about her decision to take part in the program, they are completely on board with it now.
“For my family, it was scary, but when they saw me here, and I am happy, doing well, they became proud. One of my brothers — he is the one who pushed me to do it, he is the one who encouraged my mom to let go of the fear. They call me every single day. We send photos of everything,” she said.
Riyadh Air’s initiative comes at a time when women make up just 3 percent of aircraft maintenance engineers worldwide, according to figures from the International Civil Aviation Organization.
With the aviation industry facing a shortage of skilled technicians, the new airline is not merely filling roles, but actively reshaping industry norms and establishing a sustainable talent pipeline. The rigorous program combines theoretical instruction with hands-on training in areas such as electrical systems, aircraft structures and safety protocols.
Trainees are exposed to dynamic learning environments that challenge them to adapt quickly, mirroring the rapid pace of change in Riyadh itself.
As one of the first women to enter the field with Riyadh Air, the women represent a new generation of aviation professionals in Saudi Arabia. Moving to Riyadh was a major transition for many of them, as few are local. But despite the changes, they bonded quickly as they live together in shared housing.
“We have built a community within ourselves and with the company. It doesn’t feel like just another job,” said the trainees.
While aviation remains a male-dominated field, the group is determined to challenge perceptions.
“This program didn’t exist before,” they pointed out in unison. “There are so many opportunities for future generations, and we are grateful to be part of this first wave. It’s not just about pushing women into the workforce — it’s about strengthening the economy; if you are only hiring men, you are limiting your labor force.”
With some 18 months left of their training, the students are already anticipating the next phase of their careers.
“Every day, we walk to class and see an aircraft. We know we are working towards something bigger,” they said.
As Riyadh Air prepares for its inaugural flight in 2025, these young women are poised to play a crucial role in shaping the airline’s future and their presence marks a significant shift in Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector.
Their journey, marked by personal sacrifice and relentless ambition, serves as a powerful statement for both the nation and the global aviation community.
On the 50th anniversary of International Women’s Day, Riyadh Air’s commitment to empowering women in aviation is testament to the transformative impact of investing in women.
“We all want to serve our country and see it prosper and that doesn’t come at the cost of anyone,” Al-Salmi added. “We are not replacing men; we are working alongside them — that’s what I believe women empowerment is all about.”
The women see the program as a launch pad for further greatness. Al-Zahrani concluded: “As Shahad [Al-Salmi] mentioned before, the sky is the limit. I said, ok, but we are going to be IN the sky. It’s not our limit — we really don’t have limits.”
Source:arabnews.com
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2592835/saudi-arabia
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Iranian Authorities Crack Down On Architecture Awards Over Hijab
March 7, 2025
Iranian authorities have initiated legal proceedings against organizers, hosts, and attendees of the Iranian Architecture and Interior Design Award ceremony after some women appeared without mandatory hijabs.
Known as the "Fourth Night of Architects," the 12th Iranian Interior Design Award was held on January 20 at the National Library of Iran, attracting over 500 attendees.
Shortly afterward, videos emerged on social media showing women, including judges and participants, without headscarves.
The head of Iran's Public Security Police stated that under orders from Tehran's prosecutor, "swift and decisive action" was taken against those involved in "acts contrary to morality and public decency."
Police official Majid FayzJafari told domestic media on Friday that "the police do not compromise on citizens' security and will take firm action against those who deliberately violate the law."
Tehran's prosecutor Ali Salehi also confirmed legal action, alleging that "some women attended without observing the hijab, and moral and legal standards were not upheld."
This case is part of a broader enforcement of the Islamic Republic's hijab regulations.
Last month, Iranian singer HivaSeifizadeh was arrested during a live performance at Tehran's "Emarat Roo Be Roo," prompting the venue to announce its closure until further notice.
Authorities have also expanded monitoring efforts, with reports of increasing warning messages and legal cases related to hijab violations.
According to the Dideban Azar website, some women received warnings through text messages, which, in certain cases, were sent to their family members.
In December, Tehran paused implementation of a controversial hijab law, which would impose harsher penalties on women and girls violating veiling requirements, following significant domestic and international backlash.
Yet, Iranian authorities continue to enforce existing hijab regulations, taking action against women who appear unveiled in public.
Earlier this week, 209 lawmakers signed a petition urging Parliament Speaker Mohammad BagherGhalibaf to enforce the controversial "Chastity and Hijab Law."
Following that, UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk addressed the state's hijab policies.
"I call again on the authorities to repeal the (hijab) law fully and permanently, along with all other laws and practices that discriminate against women and girls," Turk said on Monday.
Source:iranintl.com
https://www.iranintl.com/en/202503077573
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Unesco Calls For Restoration Of Women And Girls’ Rights In Afghanistan On International Women’s Day
By Fidel Rahmati
March 8, 2025
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has emphasized the restoration of women and girls’ rights in Afghanistan on the occasion of International Women’s Day, March 8. The organization has called for global mobilization to address these issues.
In a message published on Saturday, March 8, UNESCO condemned the denial of secondary education and higher education to Afghan girls and women. This highlights the continued restrictions they face in accessing education under the current regime.
Audrey Azoulay, the Director-General of UNESCO, stressed the importance of international mobilization and advocacy for the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan and around the world. According to UNESCO statistics, 1.5 million girls in Afghanistan are denied secondary education due to regressive laws that ban girls from attending school.
She warned that if these restrictions remain in place, up to 4 million girls in Afghanistan could be denied secondary education by 2030.
UNESCO also announced a high-level conference in Paris to draw global attention to the plight of women and girls in Afghanistan. The conference, held on Friday, focuses on the ongoing challenges Afghan women and girls face, aiming to increase global awareness and support for their rights, especially as their freedom and access to education remain severely restricted.
The continued denial of education and fundamental rights to Afghan women and girls remains a critical issue, especially on International Women’s Day. The international community, including UNESCO, is calling for urgent action and support for Afghan women and girls to ensure they are not left behind in the fight for equality and education.
As the Taliban’s policies persist, it is essential for the global community to stand in solidarity and advocate for the restoration of these rights. The situation in Afghanistan reflects a broader struggle for women’s rights globally, emphasizing the importance of continuous pressure on authorities to uphold the rights and freedoms of women everywhere.
Source:khaama.com
https://www.khaama.com/unesco-calls-for-restoration-of-women-and-girls-rights-in-afghanistan-on-international-womens-day/
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Women Are ‘First Madrasah’ — Serve As Backbone Of Families, Society, And Malaysia’s Progress: Dy PM
08 Mar 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, March 9 — Women are the foundation of the ‘first madrasah’ and serve as pillars of strength and resilience for their families, society, and the nation, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri FadillahYusof.
In a Facebook post, he described women as symbols of strength and perseverance, highlighting their immense contributions to shaping families, society, and the nation.
“Therefore, we must advocate for inclusive policies that empower women, safeguarding their well-being and fostering their progress for the betterment of the nation.
“In conjunction with International Women’s Day 2025, we should honour the remarkable contributions and achievements of women in shaping society and the nation, while recognising their expanding role across various fields,” he said.
Fadillah also noted that women’s participation in politics, particularly as Members of Parliament, has seen significant progress, marking a positive step toward more inclusive leadership.
According to Fadillah, in the social and economic context, issues such as the income gap between women and men, social protection, health rights, and violence against women must remain a priority for both the authorities and society.
With this year’s theme, ‘WanitaBeraspirasiMembinaLegasi’, Fadillah said the celebration serves as a symbolic tribute to women from all backgrounds, regardless of ethnicity, language, culture, economic status, or political affiliation.
He explained that the theme reflects the unwavering spirit of women in pursuing their dreams and their commitment to creating lasting change.
In line with efforts to further empower women, he noted that the MADANI government has introduced various impactful initiatives, which were unveiled in the tabling of the Budget 2025.
Source:malaymail.com
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/03/08/fadillah-women-are-first-madrasah-serve-as-backbone-of-families-society-and-malaysias-progress/168970
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Yunus Honours Outstanding Women With ‘Indomitable Women’s Award-2025’
Mar 8, 2025
Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus today honoured outstanding women with "Indomitable Women's Award-2025" for their significant contributions to various fields as part of government initiative to pay due respect and inspire them through recognising their contributions.
The award giving ceremony was held at Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the city, marking the International Women's Day.
Women and Children Affairs Adviser Sharmeen S Murshid chaired the event attended by members of the Council of Advisers, diplomats stationed in Dhaka, women leaders and senior government officials.
Sharifa Sultana, Halima Begum, Marina Besra, Lipi Begum, MuhinMohona, players of Bangladesh National Women Cricket team members are among the recipients of the awards.
UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis and Prof of Mass Communication and Journalism Prof Gitiara Nasreen spoke as special guests while Senior Secretary, Ministry of Women and Children Affairs Mamtaj Ahmed, delivered welcome remarks.
A documentary was screened at the event. A powerful and emotional cultural event was also held highlighting July uprising.
Earlier, Yunus emphasised that the current interim government is diligently working towards the goal of building a developed Bangladesh by harnessing the potential and skills of women in productive work.
"The women of Bangladesh will advance alongside the developed world to realise the vision of a prosperous Bangladesh. This should be our commitment to their development and empowerment," he said in a message marking International Women's Day, celebrated on March 8.
This year's theme is "For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment."
Yunus highlighted the achievements of Bangladeshi women, noting that many girls from the country are making their mark on the international stage, gaining recognition beyond national borders.
He also pointed out the numerous initiatives undertaken to honor women's contributions, such as the Indomitable Women's Award and the Begum Rokeya Padak.
Yunus noted the significant role women played in the mass uprising of July-August last year, where students, workers, and the public rallied for democratic transformation.
"Women were at the forefront of this movement," he said. "Many have sacrificed their lives, and I respectfully remember those martyrs and offer my condolences to the July fighters."
Yunus acknowledged that women represent half of the country's population and are making strides across various sectors.
The Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, he mentioned, is carrying out numerous initiatives to increase women's participation in all fields, including economic development. These include shelter homes for distressed women, Women's Support Centers providing legal aid, housing for working women, and microcredit programs designed to foster self-employment and financial independence. These efforts contribute significantly to women's social security and economic empowerment, he said.
Source:thedailystar.net
https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/yunus-honours-outstanding-women-indomitable-womens-award-2025-3842266
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Empowering Women: A Strategic Imperative To Counter Islamic Radicalism
By: Savio Rodrigues
08/03/2025
On International Women’s Day, as the world celebrates the achievements of women across cultures and societies, it is also an opportune moment to reflect on a critical global challenge—Islamic radicalism. While military operations, counterterrorism strategies, and intelligence efforts are essential to tackling radicalism, one of the most overlooked yet potent long-term solutions lies in the empowerment of Muslim women. Radical ideologies often thrive in environments where women are subjugated, uneducated, and economically dependent. By ensuring that Muslim women receive education, are empowered in their communities, and have access to employment opportunities, global leaders can dismantle the ideological foundation upon which extremism is built.
Women play a crucial role in shaping families, communities, and societies. When they are educated and independent, they serve as powerful counterforces to radical ideologies that prey on ignorance and oppression. Radical groups such as ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and the Taliban have consistently targeted women’s rights, recognizing that empowered women pose a direct threat to their control. In contrast, societies where women have access to education and economic opportunities have shown greater resilience against radicalization. One of the most effective ways to counter radical ideologies is through education. Radical groups often use a distorted interpretation of religion to justify their actions, and an uneducated populace is more susceptible to such propaganda. Educated women can challenge extremist narratives, raise informed children, and create community resilience. Mothers, who are often the primary educators of their children, play an essential role in shaping young minds. An educated mother can instill values of tolerance, critical thinking, and peace from an early age, reducing the likelihood of future radicalization. However, in many parts of the world, girls are denied education due to cultural norms, political instability, or extremist influence. Leaders must ensure that access to education for Muslim girls is prioritized, whether in war-torn regions or conservative societies where patriarchal structures suppress female literacy.
Empowerment is more than just education; it is about giving women the tools to make independent choices. Many radical groups rely on the oppression of women as a means of control, forcing them into silence and submission. When women are empowered, they can reject forced marriages, which are often used by terrorist groups as a recruitment tool to turn women into breeding grounds for the next generation of jihadists. They become community leaders who actively work against radicalization and serve as role models for young girls, ensuring they do not fall into the victimhood mentality that extremist groups propagate. Global leaders must work towards creating an environment where women are not just educated but also given a voice in shaping their societies. This means ensuring legal protections against gender-based violence, enforcing equal rights, and encouraging female participation in governance.
Unemployment and economic hardship are key drivers of radicalization. Many young men and women join extremist groups not just for ideological reasons but because they offer financial security. When women are employed, they reduce economic dependency on radical networks, contribute to national stability, and help de-radicalize communities. Many radical organizations exploit poverty to recruit fighters and sympathizers. Women with stable incomes can prevent their families from falling into these traps. Nations with higher female workforce participation have stronger economies and more social stability, both of which are deterrents to extremism. Women with jobs and financial independence can actively counter extremist recruitment efforts by offering alternative paths to young people. To achieve this, global leaders must push for workplace inclusivity, vocational training programs for Muslim women, and initiatives that support female entrepreneurship in conservative societies.
While the benefits of educating, empowering, and employing Muslim women are clear, several barriers remain. In many Muslim-majority societies, patriarchal structures view female empowerment as a threat to traditional norms. To overcome this, community-led education programs that emphasize how Islam supports women’s rights can help shift perceptions. Legal and political restrictions in countries like Afghanistan, Iran, and parts of the Middle East impose strict regulations on women’s freedoms. International diplomatic pressure, sanctions on oppressive regimes, and financial incentives for gender-inclusive policies can encourage change. Extremist groups specifically target women activists, educators, and professionals, making violence against women a significant deterrent to empowerment. Governments must prioritize security measures for women leaders, and global organizations should fund safe spaces and crisis support programs. Another major challenge is the lack of funding for female-centered programs, as many counterterrorism budgets focus on military operations rather than socio-economic strategies. Governments and NGOs should allocate more resources to initiatives that support women’s education, employment, and leadership.
Some countries have demonstrated that investing in women can yield significant progress in countering radicalization. In Bangladesh, government investments in female education have led to lower poverty rates and a decline in radical recruitment. Tunisia saw women play a major role in countering post-Arab Spring radicalization by promoting democratic values and civil engagement. Saudi Arabia’s economic reforms, while still within a conservative framework, have provided new employment opportunities for women, reducing the economic appeal of extremist networks. These examples prove that empowering Muslim women is not just an ideological aspiration but a practical strategy with real-world impact.
If global leaders are serious about eradicating Islamic radicalism, they must recognize that the solution is not just in military operations and intelligence gathering but also in the empowerment of Muslim women. Education, economic opportunities, and social empowerment are the real weapons against extremism. On this International Women’s Day, let this be a clarion call: The future of counterterrorism is female. By investing in the education, empowerment, and employment of Muslim women, the world can take a decisive step toward peace, stability, and the ultimate defeat of radical ideologies.
Source:goachronicle.com
https://goachronicle.com/empowering-women-a-strategic-imperative-to-counter-islamic-radicalism/#goog_rewarded
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The Impact Of Muslim Women’s Zakat Fund One Year On
7TH MARCH, 2025
Every year, as Ramadan arrives and we lean into the communal spirit of worshipping Allah ﷻ, Zakat naturally comes to mind. Yet amid crunching numbers and working out what we owe, it’s easy to forget that Zakat isn’t just about fulfilling an obligation. At its heart, Zakat is an act of love and collective care, sharing the burden of hardship so that no one in our community is left behind, and holding the power to uplift those in need of support.
These are not just numbers—these are families struggling to make ends meet, mothers choosing between heating and eating, children growing up with uncertain futures, women on the brink of homelessness with nowhere to turn.
Recognising this urgent need, Amaliah partnered with the National Zakat Foundation (NZF) to launch the Muslim Women’s Zakat Fund, a fund created specifically to ensure that Muslim women in the UK don’t just survive, but thrive.
Over the last eight years, Amaliah’s work has been guided by care for Muslim women, and this fund was a natural extension of that work. One year on, it stands as a quiet but profound reminder that when we show up for each other, we are not only changing lives, we are nurturing faith and hope.
As Dr. Sohail Hanif, CEO of NZF, poignantly asked at our launch event, “What is the point of three million Muslims if Ayesha has to sleep on the streets?” This fund is a collective response to that question, demonstrating a community’s faith in action, and refusal to look away.
The Amaliah community heard the call and came together to raise £176,000, directly assisting 135 women and reaching 480 individuals when including their dependents. But these numbers only tell part of the story. What they truly represent is community solidarity in action—of rent paid on time, homes kept warm, food on the table, and dignity restored. They represent the power of a community that understands lifting one woman can uplift entire families.
We have all heard of Zakat funds paying rent, covering bills, and putting food on the table, but what does it really mean?
For some people, it is the difference between making it through the month or falling into crisis. For others, it’s quite literally the difference between life and death—between having a safe roof over their heads or sleeping on the streets, between seeking medical treatment or suffering in silence, between holding onto hope or feeling like there’s no way out.
Muslim women in the UK are the most vulnerable and marginalised section of society, facing a layered weight of racial and religious discrimination, economic inequality, and often carrying the invisible labour of caregiving work. This often leaves them struggling to navigate daily life with dignity and security.
Many women come to this fund in their most desperate moments, having exhausted every other option. Behind every grant is a woman who has spent sleepless nights calculating budgets for hours, wrestling with how to keep her children warm, planning to go without suhoor so she can feed her kids, and praying silently for relief.
When we reach out a helping hand at a moment like that, it’s more than just money, it’s a lifeline. A reminder that someone sees you, that you are not forgotten. It is important to remember that Zakat can be the very thing that pulls someone back from the edge, restoring not only their circumstances but their sense of faith and belonging.
To give in this way is not charity, it’s the divine act of solidarity, reaffirming the truth that no one in our community should have to carry their burdens alone. This fund is proof of what happens when we honour the sacred responsibility bestowed upon us by Allah of caring for one another, not just as an obligation, but as a means of drawing closer to Him and each other.
The Need to Support Muslim Women in the UK is Urgent
The Hardship Relief Fund has been the most requested, distributing £139,729 to 126 women—impacting 435 individuals when dependents are included.
These aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet, they represent women struggling and trying hard to hold it together in the face of rising living costs. This fund means that a mother doesn’t have to choose between heating her home or feeding her children during the coldest months. It means someone who has been carrying the weight of their struggle in silence can finally feel the burden ease, even for a little while.
For many women, this support comes at a time when they’ve already stretched themselves to breaking point. The relief that comes from knowing the community is holding them up, seeing their pain, responding to their needs, can restore not just stability, but a sense of belonging and faith. This fund is a testament to the power of Zakat as a tool for dignity, reminding every woman helped that she is not alone, that her struggle matters, and that the community will not leave her behind.
The Housing Fund has provided £33,978 to 8 women, supporting 41 individuals including dependents, offering safe and secure accommodation, covering rent or council tax arrears, and avoiding homelessness.
Muslim women are disproportionately at risk of domestic abuse, violence, and housing insecurity. Statutory and government provisions are often stretched thin, leaving women to wade through a hostile system where they are overlooked or pushed to the bottom of waiting lists.
Through this fund, we can ensure that a woman leaving an abusive relationship can secure a deposit on a new flat, or that overdue rent doesn’t become the reason a mother and her children are evicted. It is more than shelter, it’s the first step towards reclaiming safety, taking back control of their lives and the chance to rebuild a life on their own terms. The fund also offers a pathway to help Muslims get out of debt.
If you or someone you know needs support, the Amaliah community is here to hold you up. You can apply here: Hardship Relief and Housing Fund.
While the Hardship and Housing Funds offer urgent relief, the Empowerment Fund enables long-term independence. Though smaller in scale, with £2,293 supporting 4 individuals including dependents, the impact of this fund is profound. This fund is designed to help Muslim women regain financial independence, whether through further education, employment support, vocational training or business start-up costs. Every investment in this fund has the potential to transform not just one life, but generations to come.
To apply for support through this fund, you can visit: Empowerment Fund.
Zakat is a mercy from Allah for the entire Ummah, whether we are the givers or receivers. When Al-Razzaq provides for us, it is important to remember that He is providing for others through our Zakat. That rizq doesn’t belong to us and it is our responsibility to ensure we are helping each other and not oblivious to the pain of those praying next to us in our local mosques.
Again and again, Allah reminds us in the Qur’an of our duty to each other and how Zakat lessens the burdens for us all.
This past year has shown us that Zakat has the revolutionary power to transform our communities, especially when it is given with intention and care. This is what collective solidarity looks like in action. Every pound given has directly impacted the lives of women facing hardship, offering not just financial aid but dignity, stability, and hope. However, the work is not done yet.
With your support this Ramadan, we can expand the reach of this fund, ensuring that no Muslim woman in the UK has to face hardship alone. Building on last year’s success, the Muslim Women’s Zakat Fund is set to make an even bigger impact in 2025. For every £3 you give, £1 is match-funded—reaching more women, faster. Many of these women are mothers or future mothers, the backbone of our community and the nurturers of the next generation. When we support Muslim women, we are investing in the future of the Muslim community in the UK.
Source:amaliah.com
https://www.amaliah.com/post/70121/powerful-impact-nzf-uk-muslim-womens-zakat-fund
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islam-women-feminism/aurat-march-islamabad-dr-farzana-bari/d/134815