Doha: The 26th session of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA) Conference commenced in Doha, Qatar, with the participation of a group of scholars and experts from across the Islamic world. The conference, held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, will run from May 4 to 8, 2025.

According to Union of OIC News Agencies, the conference proceedings began with the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran. Mr. Ghanem bin Shaheen bin Ghanem Al Ghanem, Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs of Qatar, welcomed the participating scholars and experts, highlighting the significance of Qatar hosting this global scientific event. He emphasized its role in enhancing Islamic jurisprudence and thought in addressing contemporary issues.

Mr. Hussein Ibrahim Taha, Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, spoke about the Academy's role in consolidating collective ijtihad and interacting with the challenges facing the nation. Sheikh Dr. Saleh bin Abdullah bin Humaid, President of the Academy, discussed the importance of the topics being addressed during the session. These include emerging issues in child care, the guide to Istishab, artificial intelligence, and the Islamic rulings on various financial and ethical matters.

The conference will cover a wide range of topics, including the impact of mental illness on legal capacity in Islamic law, sharia governance in contemporary Islamic financial institutions, and the legitimacy of certain practices in food production. The Council of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy aims to issue decisions and recommendations that will guide decision-makers and enhance the role of collective institutional ijtihad in addressing these contemporary issues.