Endowment (Waqf) and Social Security: The State and Endowment as a Civil Society Institution; Reciprocal Impacts Concerning Security

Simbar, Reza

doi:10.22034/icwj.2025.512541.1031

Endowment (Waqf) and Social Security: The State and Endowment as a Civil Society Institution; Reciprocal Impacts Concerning Security

Document Type : Original Research Article

Author

Reza Simbar

Professor, Department of Political Science, University of Guilan, Rasht.

10.22034/icwj.2025.512541.1031

Abstract

Civil society encompasses a variety of institutions, each capable of having a direct impact on social security. Among these, the institution of endowment (waqf) in Islamic civil society significantly influences both social and economic security. Endowment is defined as immobilizing an asset and dedicating its benefits to public welfare, such as social and charitable activities. Property transfer is limited through endowment, and its utility is designated for public use. Islamic economics, which promotes moderation, does not allow for unlimited individual ownership while also steering clear of complete public ownership. Both extremes could undermine social and economic security. This article examines how the endowment institution, as an independent entity, directly contributes to creating and preserving social security. The central argument is that, when properly managed by the state and civil society institutions, the endowment can promote social justice, equality of opportunity, active citizenship, and, ultimately, security at individual, national, and international levels. However, this can only be achieved if the endowment is not controlled by the state; if it becomes just another extension of the state, it could result in excessive government centralization, which undermines security. The paper posits that endowment is a civil society institution that the state should oversee, not dominate, while civil institutions should leverage it to ensure independence and accountability for power structures. By contributing to ideas of social justice and equal opportunities, endowment is a critical mechanism for providing social security.

Keywords

endowment (waqf) institution

civil society

justice

social security

state

Subjects

Social Sciences

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