المجلة الجزائرية للحقوق والعلوم السياسية
Volume 10, Numéro 1, Pages 1129-1143
2025-06-01

Institutionalizing The Waqf System As A Mechanism For Community Development In Algeria: Opportunities And Challenges

Authors : Rabie Dekkiche . Assanoussi Abderrahmane .

Abstract

Waqf, or Islamic endowment, has historically served as a cornerstone for social welfare and public development in Muslim societies. In contemporary Algeria, the institutionalization of the waqf system holds significant potential for addressing persistent developmental challenges, including poverty alleviation, access to healthcare, and support for education. This paper investigates the functional role of waqf in promoting community development in Algeria by analyzing its legal framework, institutional performance, and the socio-economic impact of existing waqf initiatives. Drawing on both classical Islamic jurisprudence and modern public policy, the paper highlights opportunities for reforming the waqf sector and identifies structural and governance-related obstacles that hinder its effective mobilization. Through a critical assessment of Algeria’s waqf infrastructure and a comparative glance at global models, this study proposes actionable strategies to enhance the waqf system’s contribution to sustainable development in Algeria.

Keywords

Waqf System; Community ; Development ; Islamic Social Finance ; Legal and Institutional Reform