Comparative Waqf Studies: the case of Mauritius

2014 Fiscal Year Research-status Report

• Project/Area Number: 26360003
• Research Institution: Akita University
• Principal Investigator: MORRISON Scott 秋田大学, その他部局等, 准教授 (30722300)
• Project Period (FY): 2014-04-01 – 2016-03-31
• Keywords: waqf / Islamic trust / charitable trust / Mauritius / Port Louis / Waqf Board / comparative waqf studies / Indian Ocean

Outline of Annual Research Achievements

Interviews completed in Mauritius especially in Port Louis. Personnel included lawyers, barristers, clerk of the Supreme Court, judges of the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court, waqf personnel, Waqf Board of Commissioners Acting CEO and staff including auditors. Sites visited included mosques and other voluntary trust associations around the largest island of Mauritius. Written work completed and article submitted to the Commonwealth Law Bulletin, for consideration by means of peer review. Anticipated future meetings and interviews will include mopping up, revisiting and enquiring into the impact of the Trusts Act of 2013.

Current Status of Research Progress

2: Research has progressed on the whole more than it was originally planned.

Reason

Interviewees were very forthcoming and helpful in providing information and generous in giving their time. In addition I have been able to maintain e-mail contacts since leaving the country. I have also received peer review from two scholars regarding the initial draft of the paper completed.

Strategy for Future Research Activity

Second field visit will include re-visiting sites and re-interviewing some of the same legal personnel and religious personnel, as well as networking effects or snowballing where they have provided new contracts I did not interview last year. Anticipated changes in the law will be a particular point of further enquiry.