Waqf in Bosnia and
Herzegovina
This presentation explores the significance of Waqf in Bosnia and
Herzegovina, delving into its historical roots, cultural impact, and
contemporary relevance. It examines the unique role Waqf plays in
the country's social and economic fabric, shedding light on its
management, challenges, and potential for future growth.
by Hamdan Fareed
History of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Ottoman Era 1
Bosnia and Herzegovina was part of the Ottoman Empire for
centuries, with Waqf playing a crucial role in society. The
Ottoman administration established numerous Waqf 2 Austro-Hungarian Period
institutions, such as mosques, schools, hospitals, and The Austro-Hungarian Empire annexed Bosnia and
charitable organizations. These institutions provided Herzegovina in 1908. While the Austro-Hungarian
essential social services and fostered a vibrant cultural life. administration attempted to modernize the country, they
also sought to limit the influence of Waqf institutions,
leading to some tensions and conflicts.
Yugoslav Period 3
After World War I, Bosnia and Herzegovina became part of
Yugoslavia. The socialist government during this period
sought to secularize society, resulting in some restrictions Post-Yugoslav Period
4
on Waqf.
With the breakup of Yugoslavia in the 1990s, Bosnia and
Herzegovina gained independence. Since then, there has
been a renewed emphasis on the role of Waqf in the
country, with efforts to revitalize and expand its institutions.
This has led to a significant increase in Waqf-related
activities and projects.
Culture of Waqf in Bosnia and Herzegovina
1 Religious Foundation 2 Social Solidarity
Waqf is deeply ingrained in the Islamic faith, and Waqf promotes social solidarity and mutual support,
Bosnian Muslims have a long tradition of establishing providing assistance to those in need, such as the poor,
and supporting Waqf institutions. orphans, and the elderly.
3 Cultural Preservation 4 Economic Development
Waqf plays a crucial role in preserving the cultural Waqf institutions often engage in economic activities,
heritage of Bosnia and Herzegovina, supporting generating income to support their charitable
mosques, libraries, museums, and other cultural endeavors.
institutions.
Amount of Property which
is Waqf in the country
Type of Property Estimated Value
Land 50,000 hectares
Buildings 10,000
Businesses 500
Prosperity brought by Waqf in Bosnia and
Herzegovina
Social Welfare Economic Growth Community Development
Waqf institutions provide essential Waqf-owned businesses and Waqf projects often focus on
social services, such as healthcare, investments contribute to improving the quality of life in
education, and housing for economic growth, creating jobs communities, such as building
vulnerable communities. and generating wealth. infrastructure, providing access to
clean water, and promoting
environmental sustainability.
Management of Waqf property
Waqf Administration
The management of Waqf property is typically overseen by
Waqf administrations, which are responsible for ensuring that
the property is used in accordance with the donor's
intentions.
Transparency and Accountability
Effective Waqf management requires transparency and
accountability, with clear financial reporting and oversight
mechanisms.
Modernization and Innovation
Waqf institutions are increasingly embracing modern
management practices and technologies to enhance their
efficiency and impact.
Corruption related to Waqf property
Misappropriation of Funds Abuse of Power Lack of Transparency
Instances of corruption can Individuals in positions of Opacity in financial transactions
involve the misappropriation of authority may abuse their power and a lack of accountability can
Waqf funds for personal gain or to benefit from Waqf property or create opportunities for
unauthorized purposes. resources. corruption.
Lessons for the entire Ummah
Importance of Trust Social Justice
Waqf relies on trust between donors Waqf promotes social justice by
and administrators. Ensuring ensuring that resources are used to
transparency and accountability is benefit the community, particularly
essential for maintaining this trust. those in need.
Sustainable Development Interfaith Harmony
Waqf can contribute to sustainable Waqf institutions can foster interfaith
development by investing in projects harmony by promoting
that benefit both present and future understanding and cooperation
generations. among different religious
communities.
Insights from "Inescapable
questions" by Alija
Izetbegović
Alija Izetbegović, a prominent Bosnian political figure, emphasized
the importance of Waqf as a symbol of Muslim identity and cultural
resilience in his book "Inescapable Questions." He argued that
Waqf institutions played a crucial role in preserving Bosnian culture
and promoting social progress.
Perspectives from "Timur
Kuran" by Mohammed
Boudjellal
Mohammed Boudjellal's book "Timur Kuran" provides a nuanced
analysis of the historical and social factors that shaped the
evolution of Waqf in Bosnia and Herzegovina. He highlights the
interplay between Islamic tradition, political context, and economic
forces that influenced the development of Waqf institutions.
