Vision & Aims

Ijtihad Center Vision

Ijtihad Center for Studies and Training (ICST) is an independent think tank and research platform operating at the European and international levels, starting from the pluralistic Belgian context.

The ICST strives to produce and develop objective and qualitative knowledge that meets the needs of our diverse society, taking into account its diverse philosophical, educational and socio-cultural dimensions.

We rely on two methods. Firstly, academic research on various concepts, issues and events to realistic and rational approaches and produce objective knowledge that will be available to policymakers, media, educational and social institutions, research centers, and citizens. Secondly, transferring the research results to society by organizing dialogue tables, orientation training, educational training, socio-cultural events and seminars in collaboration with various institutions at the Flemish, European and international levels.

  • Strengthening the shared values ​​within our multicultural society through objective research and cognitive, moral and pedagogical awareness.

  • Guiding, supporting and conducting activities to consolidate peace culture, tolerance and coexistence.

  • The transfer of religious, philosophical and cultural capital into educational products and activities.

  • Promoting the functioning of different social groups (children, young people, women, the elderly, etc.) within our plural society.

  • Publishing a variety of printed and digital works through which the ICST contributes to “cultural dynamics”.

NB: All of our team members contribute on a voluntary basis, offering their skills in areas such as editing, design, proofreading, and organizing various activities. As a non-profit organization, the center lacks the financial resources to cover the costs of its events. From the outset, we have made it clear to everyone interested in joining the Ijtihad Center or Ijtihad Journal that participation is voluntary and without financial compensation. In return, volunteer members enjoy free membership, the opportunity to publish in the Journal and other center publications, and participation in activities organized by the Ijtihad Center in collaboration with other institutions, such as lectures, seminars, and training sessions.

a laptop computer sitting on top of a wooden desk
a laptop computer sitting on top of a wooden desk

Ijtihad Center Aims

Ijtihad Center’s Working Methods

The Ijtihad Center works through a group of internal organizational mechanisms and committees to implement its structured vision and specific goals in the Belgian and European context in which it operates. These mechanisms are determined as follows:

1. Ijtihad Journal for Islamic and Arabic Studies in Europe

2. Ijtihad Academy for Training and Formation

3. Specialized and general research projects

4. Academic, cultural and media events

5. Youth and Society Committee

white concrete building
white concrete building