Dr. Zahid Bukhari
Executive Director, Center for Islam ad Public Policy, USA
Dr. Zahid Bukhari is the Executive Director of the Center for Islam and Public Policy, where he leads research
and programming to strengthen Muslim civic engagement, policy literacy, and institutional development. With a Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Punjab, Dr. Bukhari is a scholar and practitioner dedicated to integrating faith-based values with effective public leadership. He previously served as Director of the Office for Interfaith and Community Alliances at the Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) and has been active in interfaith coalitions and public service initiatives for decades. His writings and lectures explore governance, pluralism, and community empowerment through the lens of Islamic ethics. A respected voice in the Muslim American leadership, Dr. Bukhari’s work continues to bridge the gap between spiritual ideals and civic responsibility, inspiring Muslim organizations to play a constructive role in shaping equitable and compassionate public policy.
Creating a Waqf Based Economy: Free of Riba and Poverty- A case Study in Pakistan
The current Riba-based financial system doesn't quite align with the economic principals found in the Qur'an and Sunnah. Before the advent of modern banking, Muslims successfully managed their economic and financial systems for over a thousand years using those principals. This paper will explore, through a case study in Pakistan, how we can establish na nwaqf-based economy that's free from Riba and poverty.