Corporate Social Responsibility from an Islamic Perspective

Ayesha Saddique 

 M.A Islamic Studies, Fatima Jinnah Women University. MSBA, Department of Buisness Administration, Virtual University, Lahore Pakistan.

Fatima Saddique*

M Phil Scholar, Department of Education, Virtual University, Lahore Pakistan

This study explores the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) from an Islamic

perspective with reference to existing CSR frameworks. CSR has become a core

component of sustainable business practices worldwide. Through qualitative descriptive

analysis of the Qur’an, the Sunna, and other relevant sources, this study articulates the

fundamental Islamic concepts that inform and underpin the corporate social

responsibility (CSR) concept within the Islamic framework. Findings indicate that CSR

is embedded in the Islamic Shariah through the concept of Khilafah. Businesses and other

forms of organizations are established as trusts to manage economic and social affairs.

Within this framework, businesses are expected to conduct themselves in an ethical

manner and to demonstrate stewardship of the environment, of employees, of the

distribution of justice and of charity. Contemporary CSR frameworks are found to be

largely compatible with the Islamic framework of CSR. In contrast to the partial

framework of CSR offered by Islam, within the framework of Islamic principles on CSR,

accountability is offered in the first place to Allah and then to humanity, in all its

diversity. Therefore, by incorporating the Islamic values and ethics into the business

activities, of the corporate entities, it is possible to enhance the confidence of the

stakeholders and the corporate reputation, to bring about sustainable human

development.

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