AT A GLANCE
- Dates: 24–25 November 2026
- Location: London, UK (venue to be confirmed)
- Format: In-person with hybrid/online attendance available
- Organised by: Islamic Finance Review (IFR)
- Abstract deadline: 15 September 2026
- Publication opportunity: Selected papers considered for the Journal of Islamic Banking, Economics and Policy (JIBEP)
ABOUT THE CONFERENCE
Following the success of GEFC 2025, the 2nd Global Ethical Finance Conference returns in 2026 to bring together academics, policymakers, and industry professionals to explore how ethical finance — including Islamic finance, sustainable finance, and responsible innovation — can support inclusive growth and long-term economic resilience.
Organised by Islamic Finance Review (IFR), in collaboration with academic and industry partners, GEFC 2026 provides a platform to exchange evidence, debate policy directions, and showcase practice-based solutions across ethical banking, ESG, and financial inclusion.
Last year’s conference welcomed speakers and delegates from across the globe, including the USA, Germany, Pakistan, Bahrain, the UK, Oman, Jordan, Indonesia, and Ghana. GEFC 2026 aims to build on that international reach, deepening dialogue between researchers, practitioners, and policymakers shaping the future of ethical finance.
CONFERENCE THEMES
GEFC 2026 invites research, papers, and discussion across the following themes:
🏛 Ethical Banking & Finance — Shariah-compliant banking, takaful, sukuk, and fintech innovation
📄 Public Policy & Economic Development — Islamic perspectives on fiscal policy, social justice, and ethical governance
🌍 Climate Finance & Green Investment — Green Sukuk, climate risk, and sustainable investment strategies
💻 Digital Transformation & Fintech — Blockchain, AI, and digital innovation in Islamic finance
🤝 Islamic Social Finance & Inclusion — Zakat, Waqf, and financial inclusion for underserved communities
📈 Islamic Capital Market Innovation — Sukuk structuring, Islamic capital markets, and investment product development
(Additional sub-topics welcome, including Maqasid al-Shariah, Shariah Governance & Policy, Halal Economy & SDG-linked Business Models, and Women in Islamic Finance.)
CALL FOR PAPERS / ABSTRACTS
We invite academics, practitioners, and postgraduate researchers to submit abstracts for GEFC 2026. Selected papers will be presented at the conference, with opportunities for publication and recognition through the Best Paper Award.
Key Dates
- Abstract submission deadline: 15 September 2026
- Notification of acceptance: 30 September 2026
- Camera-ready submission: 25 October 2026
- Conference dates: 24–25 November 2026
Submission Guidelines
- Abstracts should be [300–500] words, outlining objectives, methodology, and key findings/contribution
- Submissions are welcomed from academics, practitioners, and postgraduate/PhD researchers
- All submissions are reviewed by the conference committee prior to acceptance
Registration fees
| Category | Early Bird | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Presenting author | £200 | £250 |
| Non-presenting delegate | £180 | £220 |
| Student (presenting or attending) | £100 | £150 |
| Virtual/hybrid attendance | £80 | £80 |
Publication Opportunity (JIBEP) Selected authors may be invited to submit extended versions of their conference papers to the Journal of Islamic Banking, Economics and Policy (JIBEP). All invited submissions are subject to editorial screening and peer review in accordance with the journal’s policies. Submission to the conference does not guarantee journal publication; decisions are based on quality, scope fit, and review outcomes.
AWARDS & IMPACT
Best Paper Award Outstanding submissions will be recognised with a Best Paper Award at the conference, along with special mentions for standout contributions across each theme.
Giving Back In line with IFR’s commitment to ethical practice, 10% of conference profits will be donated to charity, continuing a tradition of using the platform not just to discuss ethical finance, but to practise it.
PARTNER WITH US
GEFC 2026 offers sponsors and partners the opportunity to connect with an international community of academics, policymakers, and industry leaders in ethical and Islamic finance.
Sponsorship Tiers: Platinum · Gold · Silver
In Collaboration With Journal of Islamic Banking Economics and Policy (JIBEP)
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
- Venue: To be confirmed — London, UK
- Travel & Accommodation: Details will be published once the venue is confirmed
- Visa Letters: International delegates requiring an invitation letter for visa purposes should contact events@islamicfinancereview.co.uk
- Attendance: In-person and hybrid/online options available
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who should attend GEFC 2026? Academics, researchers, postgraduate students, policymakers, and industry professionals with an interest in Islamic finance, ethical finance, and sustainable economic development.
Do I need to present a paper to attend? No — delegates are welcome to attend without presenting.
Is there a virtual attendance option? Yes, GEFC 2026 will offer hybrid attendance for those unable to travel to London.
How much does it cost to attend? Registration fee
Can I still submit if I’m an early-career researcher or student? Yes — GEFC welcomes submissions from postgraduate and early-career researchers alongside established academics and practitioners.
What happens after I submit an abstract? All submissions are reviewed by the conference committee. You will be notified of the outcome by 30 September 2026.
STAY CONNECTED
To stay up to date on GEFC 2026 — including speaker announcements, deadlines, and the full agenda:
1) Join Our Mailing List Subscribe to receive event announcements, publication opportunities, and priority registration updates.
2) Join the GEFC Community Connect with speakers, delegates, and organisers ahead of the conference.
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Submit Your Paper Ready to contribute to GEFC 2026? Register for the conference Now.