In Islam, the well-being of a child must be the primary consideration in all decisions relating to children. The Quran states: “They ask you concerning orphans. Say: “The best thing to do is what is for their good; if you mix their affairs with yours, they are your brethren; but God knows the one who means mischief from the one who means good. And if God had wished, He could have put you into difficulties: He is indeed Exalted in Power, Wise.” (2:220).
Today, Muslims need to ensure that the most appropriate and effective model for child care is available, accessible, controlled, and properly implemented. Collaborative conversations across civil society should engender a holistic and productive debate on the history and future of orphans, familial ethics and law. Muslims should be actively engaged in working toward the betterment of such institutional frameworks for securing justice, psychological and socioeconomic stability for all orphans.
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