Ramadan Giving Strengthens Long-Term Social Impact Across Asia, Says AVPN CEO

Ramadan has become a focal point for charitable giving in the Gulf, with a notable shift towards fostering longer-term social impact. This trend emphasizes not only immediate humanitarian aid but also initiatives aimed at education, livelihoods, and climate resilience.

Naina Subberwal Batra, Chief Executive Officer of AVPN, highlighted that this season offers a unique opportunity to transform generosity into sustainable outcomes for communities, moving beyond mere short-term relief. While she acknowledged the continued importance of humanitarian aid and food programs, she noted a growing encouragement for donors to support projects that extend beyond basic needs, ultimately contributing to long-term well-being. Batra cited the UNHCR Refugee Zakat Fund as an example, which assists families in meeting urgent needs while simultaneously enhancing their economic resilience through productive assets.

The Role of Faith-Aligned Giving

Batra underscored the significant role of faith-aligned giving, which constitutes nearly 10% of global financial assets. This type of philanthropy not only provides capital but also embodies moral leadership rooted in stewardship, compassion, and human dignity. She pointed out the pressing needs across Asia, where an estimated annual shortfall of $1.1 trillion exists to strengthen infrastructure, protect public health, and support critical systems. In this context, she emphasized that Ramadan giving can be more effective when it is coordinated, strategically targeted, and capable of operating across borders.

Batra referenced advancements in digital giving infrastructure, noting that technology facilitates connections between donors and credible organizations at scale. She highlighted BAZNAS in Indonesia, which collaborates with government entities and businesses to channel zakat through a digital platform that provides meal vouchers while also supporting local small enterprises.

Philanthropy’s Resilience in the Gulf

The significance of faith-based philanthropy in the Gulf remains pronounced, particularly during Ramadan, when social responsibility is at the forefront. Batra remarked on the resilience of this type of giving, which often remains steady or even increases during crises or economic disruptions. Current efforts are increasingly focused on integrating traditional charitable practices such as zakat and waqf with modern impact strategies, including enhanced governance, improved measurement, and broader collaboration. This approach aims to ensure that philanthropic capital reaches communities effectively across Asia.

AVPN’s establishment of a hub in West Asia reflects this strategy, as the region is recognized as a major source of values-driven philanthropic capital. Batra explained that the organization seeks to connect this capital with credible institutions on the ground, allowing Ramadan giving and year-round donations to contribute to more enduring change.

Describing AVPN as Asia’s largest network of social investors, Batra noted that the organization comprises over 700 members across 43 markets, including foundations, family offices, companies, development institutions, and government stakeholders. The network’s mission is to facilitate coordination around shared goals, link capital with credible opportunities, and foster collaboration across sectors and geographies.

Mobilizing Capital for Impact

Batra reported that more than $520 billion has been mobilized through the network towards impactful initiatives. However, she emphasized that the organization’s value lies not only in capital mobilization but also in ensuring that funding is deployed strategically, measurably, and collaboratively.

The selection of Abu Dhabi for the new hub was based on its longstanding tradition of values-driven giving through zakat, waqf, and other philanthropic forms. Batra described the region as strategically positioned at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa, enabling funders and investors to support initiatives across the continent. She noted that Abu Dhabi’s location, the UAE’s humanitarian efforts, and its enabling ecosystem linked to capital and innovation made it a natural choice.

Addressing Asia’s Challenges

Batra addressed the critical role Gulf philanthropy can play in tackling Asia’s pressing challenges, highlighting an annual financing gap of around $1.5 trillion needed to meet sustainable development goals. She identified climate change as an urgent priority, warning that without intervention, countries across Asia could face significant economic losses in the coming decades, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. Gulf-based funders are already supporting projects aimed at addressing river plastic pollution in Indonesia and promoting sustainable agriculture in South Asia.

Health is another crucial area, with projections indicating that Asia’s health systems could incur economic losses exceeding $12.5 trillion by 2050 without stronger action. Batra emphasized the necessity of building resilient health infrastructure, particularly in infectious diseases and maternal health.

Furthermore, she pointed out that gender equity and equitable access to artificial intelligence require increased attention, as philanthropic capital can catalyze efforts in these areas where government and market support may be lacking.

The Evolving Landscape of Philanthropy

Batra noted a significant shift in the philanthropic landscape within the Gulf, with nearly $2 trillion in wealth expected to transfer to the next generation in the GCC over the next decade. Younger philanthropists are increasingly interested in outcomes and data, focusing on understanding impact rather than merely tracking activities. This generation is also more receptive to innovative financing approaches, such as impact investing and blended finance, moving beyond traditional grants. Batra believes this evolution introduces greater rigor, stronger governance, and a long-term perspective into philanthropic practices.

During Ramadan, Batra encouraged philanthropists in the Gulf to view this period as an opportunity for reflection, generosity, and purpose. She advocated for more intentional giving, emphasizing the importance of focusing on outcomes alongside inputs and fostering collaboration to enhance impact. The challenges facing Asia, from climate change to health disparities and inequality, necessitate sustained and strategic action.

As reported by www.emirates247.com.

Published on 2026-03-10 12:21:00 • By Editorial Desk

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