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The Muslim Research and Development Foundation (MRDF) is a cooperative venture run by a number of leading Muslim scholars, Imams and professionals from a variety of backgrounds. With its two main fields identified as research and development, the foundation commenced its operation in 2002 and was awarded official charity status in 2007.

The foundation strives to articulate Islam in a modern context and address the unique situation and challenges faced by Muslims in the West. An integral focus as a means to this end is the study, analysis & presentation of classical Islamic scholarship and its contemporary application.

With its endeavours firmly rooted in furthering the progress of Muslims in the West, the foundation has dedicated a great deal of its work to research and development. Aiming to impact public opinion about the role of Islam in society, MRDF has developed structured activities and research techniques that are paving the way for Muslim thinkers and professionals to gain the credibility which is worthy of them. This in turn will facilitate and administer a healthy incorporation into wider society allowing positive influence and authority at all levels.

The Why

The process of de-secularisation within society is underway. Interest in spirituality is continuously increasing across the Western world. Both the government and the media have Islam on their agendas. MRDF upholds to the fact that Islam is not just important for human flourishing and the renewal of society, but that society can only truly thrive if Islam is given its due right.

MRDF believes that societal development and change will come through developing Muslim leaders, scholars and intellectuals who are well founded in Islamic knowledge and are able to promote the pristine teachings of Islam to Western audiences. The foundation is devoted to the articulation of classical Islamic principles in a manner that provides a platform for Islam to be the cure for all of humanities ills.

The How

This esteemed position in society will be achieved through developing Muslim leaders, scholars and intellectuals who are well founded in Islamic knowledge and are able to promote the pristine teachings of Islam to Western audiences. The foundation is devoted to the articulation of classical Islamic principles in a manner that provides a platform for Islam to be the cure for all of humanities ills.

MRDF undertakes its work through diverse activities including:

• research and publishing programmes
• corporate retreats and development programmes
• organising conferences, seminars and lecture tours
• analysis of news, information and media material

Our staff and consultants have strong public affairs experience, an excellent research track record and a high level of Islamic literacy. We are well versed in media relations, detailed policy development and effecting policy change. Boasting in excess of 50 official members, the foundation is managed by an administrative committee chaired by Shaykh Haitham al-Haddad. Profiles of the trustees and admin committee can be found here. In addition to our independently driven work, MRDF provides research, analysis and advice to individuals and organisations across the private, public and not-for-profit sectors.