Exploring Islamic Social Work Between Community and the Common Good

“This book offers a powerful exploration of how Islamic philosophy, culture and modern experience intersect in meaningful ways. It provides essential insights for anyone working with diverse communities. … this book is not only a rich academic resource but also a meaningful guide for social workers and community practitioners.” (Gloria Abdo, European Journal of Social Work, Vol. 29 (3), 2026)

Hansjörg Schmid is director of the Swiss Center for Islam and Society and professor for interreligious ethics at the University of Fribourg, he was the founder and coordinator of the Theological Forum Christianity – Islam, his research is focused on interreligious social ethics and on Muslims in European societies with a focus on chaplaincy and social work.

Amir Sheikzadegan, PhD in Sociology from the University of Zurich, is a senior researcher both at the Department of Social Work, Social Policy and Global Development of the University of Fribourg. Topics of his research include Islam between tradition and modernity, political Islam, narrative identity, civic engagement, spiritual care, and qualitative social research.