Overview of IRD

Iqbal International Institute for Research & Dialogue (IRD)

The Iqbal International Institute for Research & Dialogue (IRD) was originally established at Lahore as a global centre of excellence in Islamic Studies to encourage interdisciplinary approaches to the study of contemporary Islamic thought with particular emphasis on areas such as human rights, rule of law, pluralism, tolerance, democracy, Islam and the West, inter-faith dialogue and relations, and Islamic responses to religious extremism and violence.
In June 2007, the Iqbal International Institute for Research & Dialogue (IRD) was transferred to the International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) as an autonomous unit of the University with its own Governing Council under the chairmanship of the Rector of IIUI and became functional in January 2008.

MISSION STATMENT

Drawing inspiration from the fundamental values and teaching of Islam as articulated by the writings of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the IRD will take steps towards evolving culture of peace, tolerance, and harmony in Pakistan and among the Muslim Ummah. It will promote and develop dialogical rationalism and will create an awareness of humanity’s common aspiration and endeavor to build a morally-informed, just social order.

What do we do

Research Development
Scholarly Articles
Lectures & Seminars
Programs
Publications

OBJECTIVES

  • To provide an open forum for creative work, candid discussions and lively debates on issues of contemporary relevance to Islamic societies.
  • To bring together researchers and scholars of the highest caliber from all over the world in the field of contemporary Islamic thought as Iqbal Fellows to give public lectures, conduct seminars, teach courses and interact with the students and faculty of the Pakistani universities and other educational and civil society institutions.
  • To transmit the dynamic and forward-looking message of Allama Muhammad Iqbal to community leaders, trainers and civil society leaders.
  • To create an intellectually challenging environment which can promote new thinking to develop a vision leading to personal and social transformation.
  • To collaborate with like-minded persons and institutions in Pakistan and the world at large for promoting a better understanding of Islam and creating an awareness of humanity’s common endeavor to create a moral and just social order.
  • To develop and introduce courses on Islamic culture and civilization using modern methodologies for students and others desirous of acquiring knowledge about Islam.