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EDITORIAL

Why Do We Need More Muslim Journalists Globally?

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Representation in media is crucial in shaping public opinion and understanding different communities and perspectives. Media, whether traditional or digital, plays a significant role in how society perceives and interacts with different groups of people. It is essential that media accurately and fairly represents all communities, including those that are underrepresented or marginalized.

Unfortunately, Muslim journalists are underrepresented in the global media industry. This lack of representation means that the perspectives and experiences of Muslim individuals and communities are not adequately represented in news coverage and other forms of media. This not only perpetuates stereotypes and misinformation about Muslim individuals and communities but also leads to a lack of understanding and empathy toward them. This problem is especially pronounced in the Western media where the news is often shaped by the Western perspective and the representation of other cultures, including the Muslim community, is limited.

Furthermore, the underrepresentation of Muslim journalists in the media industry is a complex issue that is influenced by a variety of factors, including lack of representation in media education and training, bias and discrimination in hiring practices, and economic and social barriers. It is important to address and overcome these barriers to ensure that Muslim voices are heard and represented in the media industry.

The impact of underrepresentation A. Limited representation of Muslim perspectives in news coverage The underrepresentation of Muslim journalists in the media industry leads to a limited representation of Muslim perspectives in news coverage. This can result in a lack of understanding and empathy towards Muslim individuals and communities and can perpetuate stereotypes and misinformation about them. For instance, Muslim perspectives on issues such as terrorism, immigration, and civil rights are often missing from news coverage which leads to a narrow understanding of these issues and can lead to harmful policies and actions toward the Muslim community.

B. Stereotypes and misinformation perpetuated by lack of Muslim voices The lack of Muslim voices in the media industry perpetuates stereotypes and misinformation about Muslim individuals and communities. For example, the lack of Muslim journalists covering terrorism news can lead to a one-dimensional portrayal of Muslim individuals as terrorists, rather than as victims or activists. This perpetuates harmful stereotypes and can lead to discrimination and prejudice against Muslim individuals and communities.

C. The role of the media in shaping public opinion The media plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion, and the underrepresentation of Muslim voices in the media industry can lead to a skewed understanding of Muslim individuals and communities. This can result in negative attitudes towards Muslim individuals and communities and can even lead to discriminatory policies and actions. On the other hand, when Muslim voices are represented in the media, it can lead to a more accurate and empathetic understanding of Muslim individuals and communities and can help to challenge stereotypes and promote understanding.

The benefits of increased representation A. More accurate and diverse news coverage Increased representation of Muslim journalists in the media industry can lead to more accurate and diverse news coverage. With a more diverse range of perspectives and experiences represented in the media, news coverage can be more nuanced and reflective of the complexities of different issues and communities. This can lead to a more accurate understanding of Muslim individuals and communities and can help to challenge stereotypes and promote understanding.

B. Challenging stereotypes and promoting understanding With more Muslim voices represented in the media industry, stereotypes and misinformation about Muslim individuals and communities can be challenged and corrected. Muslim journalists can provide a more authentic and personal perspective on issues affecting the Muslim community, which can help to promote understanding and empathy towards them. Furthermore, Muslim representation in the media can also help to challenge the one-dimensional portrayal of Muslim individuals and communities and can help to humanize them in the eyes of the public.

C. The power of representation in shaping public opinion Representation in the media is a powerful tool for shaping public opinion. Increased representation of Muslim journalists in the media industry can lead to a more accurate and empathetic understanding of Muslim individuals and communities, which can contribute to positive attitudes and actions toward them. Furthermore, representation can also have a positive impact on the representation of Muslims in broader society, by providing role models, and changing the perception of Muslims in the public sphere. Representation can also help to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and bring their issues to the forefront.

Barriers to entry for Muslim journalists A. Lack of representation in media education and training One barrier to entry for Muslim journalists is the lack of representation in media education and training. Muslim students may face challenges in accessing media education and training programs, due to a lack of resources or a lack of representation of Muslim individuals in these programs. This can make it difficult for Muslim students to gain the skills and experience needed to enter the media industry. Furthermore, a lack of representation in media education can also lead to a lack of understanding of issues and perspectives specific to the Muslim community, which can result in a lack of representation of these perspectives in the media industry.

B. Bias and discrimination in hiring practices Another barrier to entry for Muslim journalists is bias and discrimination in hiring practices. Muslim journalists may face discrimination in the hiring process due to their religion, name, or perceived ethnicity. This can make it difficult for Muslim journalists to secure employment in the media industry, despite having the necessary skills and qualifications. Furthermore, bias and discrimination in hiring practices can also limit the opportunities for Muslim journalists to advance in their careers and gain visibility in the media industry.

C. Economic and social barriers Economic and social barriers can also be significant obstacle for Muslim journalists. For example, Muslim journalists may face economic challenges such as a lack of access to funding or resources, which can make it difficult for them to pursue a career in the media industry. Additionally, Muslim journalists may also face social barriers such as a lack of support or understanding from their families or communities, which can also make it difficult for them to pursue a career in the media industry. Furthermore, these barriers can also be interconnected, and lack of representation in media education and training, coupled with bias and discrimination in hiring practices can result in a lack of economic and social mobility for Muslim journalists.

Solutions and steps forward A. Promoting media education and training for Muslim individuals One solution to increasing the representation of Muslim journalists in the media industry is to promote media education and training for Muslim individuals. This can be done by increasing resources and support for Muslim students in media programs and by increasing the representation of Muslim individuals in media education and training programs. Additionally, promoting media education and training for Muslim individuals can also be done by creating mentorship and internship opportunities for Muslim students and providing them with the necessary resources and support to succeed in the media industry.

B. Addressing bias and discrimination in hiring practices Another solution to increasing the representation of Muslim journalists in the media industry is to address bias and discrimination in hiring practices. This can be done by implementing policies and practices that promote diversity and inclusion in the hiring process. Additionally, media organizations can conduct regular training and education for their staff on unconscious bias and discrimination, and create an inclusive culture in the workplace. Furthermore, media organizations can also be held accountable for discrimination and bias, by encouraging whistleblowers and implementing measures to prevent retaliation.

C. Supporting and amplifying Muslim voices in the media industry A third solution to increasing the representation of Muslim journalists in the media industry is to support and amplify Muslim voices already in the industry. This can be done by providing Muslim journalists with resources and support to produce quality content and by creating opportunities for them to gain visibility in the media industry. Additionally, media organizations can also use their platforms to amplify the voices of Muslim journalists, by featuring their work and by providing them with opportunities to speak on important issues affecting the Muslim community. Furthermore, supporting and amplifying Muslim voices in the media industry can also be done by creating a network of Muslim journalists and providing them with opportunities for mentorship and collaboration.

Recap of the importance of representation in media Representation in media is important as it shapes public opinion, and all voices and perspectives must be represented in the media industry. A lack of representation can result in stereotypes and misinformation and can also lead to a lack of understanding and empathy for certain communities.

B. The need for more Muslim journalists around the world is crucial as it will lead to more accurate and diverse news coverage, challenging stereotypes, and promoting understanding. The underrepresentation of Muslim journalists in the global media industry has resulted in a limited representation of Muslim perspectives in news coverage and perpetuated stereotypes and misinformation.

Call to action for the media industry and society to support Muslim journalists To increase the representation of Muslim journalists in the media industry, it is crucial for the media industry and society to take action. The media industry should promote media education and training for Muslim individuals, address bias and discrimination in hiring practices, and support and amplify Muslim voices in the media industry. Society, on the other hand, should support and amplify Muslim journalists’ work and create opportunities for them to be mentored and collaborate with other journalists. Together, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and representative media industry, that accurately reflects the diverse world we live in.


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EDITORIAL

Celebrating a Decade of Resilience and Impact: Our Journey in Fostering Islamic Economics in Africa

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On the 13th of December, 2023, the Africa Islamic Economic Foundation (AFRIEF), clocked ten years as an organization. Surviving as an organization in itself speaks volumes about our strength, resilience, determination, and adaptability. Despite facing various challenges, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to promoting Islamic economic principles and sharing news and developments in the Islamic economy.

Against all odds, we have continued to actively engage with the Islamic economy community, fostering connections, promoting dialogue, and contributing to the intellectual growth of the field. This accomplishment is a testament to our vision, perseverance, and commitment to its mission.

Over the past decade, we have successfully established a presence and created a platform for dialogue across the continent. Through conferences, seminars, and workshops, we have brought together scholars, experts, and stakeholders from various African countries to exchange ideas, share experiences, and promote a better understanding of Islamic economic principles.

We have been instrumental in advancing research and scholarship in the field of Islamic economics. Through rigorous academic studies and publications, we have contributed to the body of knowledge surrounding Islamic economics, addressing both the theoretical and practical aspects. These research publications have not only enhanced understanding but also provided valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners.

Last November, we held a virtual and impersonal Summits on Islamic finance and healthcare financing in Abuja, Nigeria. These summits are not only innovative and noteworthy achievements but demonstrate our commitment to exploring new avenues within Islamic economics to addressing critical sectors, such as finance and healthcare. What is more, these summits serve as a testament to our forward-thinking approach and commitment to driving positive change in crucial sectors. Through such innovative initiatives, we have established ourselves as key players in promoting Islamic economics, influencing policy discussions, and contributing to the sustainable development of Africa

The publication of the news website and the weekly e-newsletter, “Focus on the Islamic Economy,” is another testament to our dedication to disseminating valuable information to Islamic economy intellectuals and professionals worldwide. Through quality and unbiased journalism we have been able to establish a platform for knowledge-sharing and keeping the community updated, thus becoming a trusted source of insights, trends, and advancements in the field.

Recognizing the importance of education, we have prioritized capacity building initiatives like training programs, workshops, and online courses, and empowered individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the intersection of Islamic principles and economic practices. This has resulted in a growing pool of professionals equipped to contribute to the development of Africa’s Islamic economic sector.

We have also played a vital role in fostering entrepreneurship and economic development within Africa, through our flagship initiatives, Innovate Africa Program (IAP) and the Halal Business Transformation Program (HBTP). This support for innovative business ideas and providing access to funding, mentorship, and networks, is nurturing a thriving ecosystem of Islamic-inspired entrepreneurs and ventures in the Continent. These initiatives have not only contributed to economic growth but also emphasized ethical business practices aligned with Islamic values.

As we celebrate our  tenth year anniversary, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the remarkable journey of survival and the positive impact we have made in the Islamic economics landscape in Africa and beyond. May the coming years bring even greater achievements and continued success to the Africa Islamic Economic Foundation.


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EDITORIAL

COP OUT

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The world’s leaders are not coming to save us. That was the message in brilliant technicolor from the 28th COP meeting that concluded in Dubai about a fortnight ago.

Yes, COP28 was a catastrophic failure, but that failure is not down to the individual frailties of the negotiators present. It was preordained. COP can’t work while the global balance of forces remain as they are.

With no mechanism to force the rich countries of the North to pay to support the South to both adapt to climate change and for the loss and damage they suffer from climate breakdown, targets for finance and technology transfers will never be met. That’s why the global commitment to raise $100 billion per year for climate finance is pushed back every year and the much touted Loss and Damage fund, which is projected to need over $200 billion per year by 2030, has amassed only $700 million in commitments – not even hard cash. The US pledged just $17 million to the fund. Compare that with the $14 billion of weaponry for Israel to pursue its campaign of murder and destruction in Gaza.

$100 billion dollars sounds like a lot of money – and it would be for Southern states adapting to the worst impacts of climate breakdown – but it is just around one tenth of one percent of global economic output. But COP’s biggest structural flaw isn’t even the stingy hypocrisy of the Global North. It’s the overweening power of Big Oil in the global system.

This dominance was on full display in Dubai, giving satire its second death after Henry Kissinger’s Nobel Prize. The conference was presided over by the CEO of an oil company and was lousy with fossil fuel lobbyists, whose number quadrupled to 2,400, making them the largest delegation by far.

So it should come as no shock that COP28, like all previous COPs before it failed to agree on the need to phase out fossil fuels and to set a deadline for doing so. Instead, the final document suggests that states may – with no obligations – “draw down” fossil fuel production. The demands from over 120 countries to completely eliminate new fossil fuel production were ignored.

Climate breakdown cannot be averted without addressing the first order issue: fossil fuels power our global system. That has to change. Increasing investment in cleaner energy sources alone won’t do the job. COP28 agreed on tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030, but, as we’ve seen with the policies of Joe Biden, President of the world’s biggest oil producer, expanding clean energy investment is compatible with expanding fossil fuel investment.

Investment in fossil fuels continues to soar because it is profitable and we live under capitalism. As we have seen in the past two years, rising prices have meant bumper profits and therefore increased investment in fossil fuels. While rising interest rates puts downward pressure on renewables investment, which is much more capital intensive at the front end.

The world system as it is won’t save us, but rather condemns us to live on a planet that becomes less and less hospitable to human life as we know it. 2023 has been a year of catastrophic extreme weather, from monster heatwaves in Europe to a flooding emergency in Libya and a continental inferno in Canada. January to October was 1.43 degrees above pre-industrial average. Next year will be worse, breaking new records as El Niño accelerates global heating to above 1.5°C, a threshold that risks setting off a cascade of irreversible tipping points.

Next year’s COP 29 will be held in another oil-producing state with no interest in ending fossil fuels, Azerbaijan. This is the dilemma: humanity is trapped in an overheating train helmed by fossil capitalists structurally obliged to fan the flames. Our task is to unite and organise the social forces that can seize the engine room and pull the emergency brake. No more cop-outs.


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EDITORIAL

Tribute to Prof Dr. Syed Khalid Rashid

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We dedicate this week’s editorial to celebrate the life and legacy of our brother and friend, Prof Dr. Syed Khalid Rashid, a renowned academic and expert in Islamic law, who passed away on December 15, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of scholarship and contributions to the field of waqf development.

With a heavy heart, we bid farewell to a true visionary, scholar, and mentor. Prof Rashid was a beacon of knowledge, dedicating his life to the pursuit of learning and the sharing of wisdom. His passion for education was unparalleled, inspiring countless students to embrace their curiosity and immerse themselves in the pursuit of knowledge. His contributions to his field were immense, leaving an indelible impact on the academic community.

Professor Rashid was a prolific writer and researcher, authoring several books and articles on Islamic law and Waqf. His most notable works include “Waqf (Laws and Administration)” and “Muslim Law,” which are considered essential references for scholars and practitioners in the field.

Professor Rashid’s work on waqf is particularly significant in light of the growing importance of waqf as a tool for social and economic development in Muslim societies. waqf has been used to fund a wide range of projects, including mosques, schools, hospitals, and other charitable institutions. Professor Rashid’s scholarship has helped to provide a sound legal framework for the establishment and administration of waqf, ensuring that these charitable endowments are used effectively and in accordance with Islamic law.

In addition to his academic contributions, Professor Rashid also played an active role in waqf development through his involvement in various waqf organizations and initiatives. He served as a member of the board of directors of several waqf foundations and was a frequent speaker at conferences and workshops on waqf. It is significant to mention that the Africa Islamic Economic Foundation (AFRIEF) missed him debuting our monthly colloquium.

Through his groundbreaking research, Prof Rashid opened new avenues of understanding, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and fostering innovation. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Prof Rashid touched the lives of those around him with his kindness, compassion, and unwavering support. Most of us, including his students and colleagues would remember him as a mentor who nurtured our potential and encouraged us to reach for the stars.

Prof Rashid’s legacy lives on through the countless minds he shaped, the research he conducted, and the knowledge he imparted. He was a pillar of wisdom and a true inspiration to all who had the privilege to learn from him.

Today, as we bid farewell to Prof Sayed Khalid Rashid, let us not mourn his loss, but instead celebrate the incredible life he lived. May his memory serve as a constant reminder to embrace knowledge, nurture curiosity, and always strive for excellence.  Prof Syed Khalid Rashid, though you have passed on to the glorious life of eternity, your contributions to knowledge will forever be cherished, and your light will continue to guide future generations. May Allah SWT grant him Aljannat ul Firdaus.


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