Transforming zakat distribution: a realist synthesis of conditional cash transfer insights

Purpose This study aims to evaluate the integration of conditional cash transfer (CCT) frameworks into zakat programmes to strengthen poverty reduction and human capital development. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a systematic realist synthesis, guided by the PRISMA protocol and structured through the context–mechanism–outcome (CMO) framework, to examine 41 relevant articles on global CCT programmes such as Bolsa Família (Brazil), Family Rewards (USA) and Programme Keluarga Harapan (Indonesia). This approach is particularly suited as it enables the integration of diverse evidence, captures the complexity of conditionalities across different contexts and identifies underlying mechanisms that explain how and why CCT frameworks may be adapted into zakat programmes. Findings The findings show that CCT programmes improve education, health and employment outcomes when supported by adequate infrastructure, accessible services and enabling socio-economic conditions. Compared with unconditional zakat assistance that mainly provides short-term relief, conditionality-based approaches demonstrate stronger capacity to promote behavioural transformation, human capital development and sustainable poverty alleviation among Asnaf. Practical implications This study suggests that zakat institutions should progressively integrate soft behavioural conditionalities related to education, healthcare, employment readiness and human capital development within zakat distribution systems. Implementation should prioritise supportive approaches involving mentoring, monitoring, case management and inter-agency collaboration while ensuring ethical safeguards related to religious stigma, privacy and exclusion risks. Originality/value This study applies realist synthesis to examine the adaptation of behavioural and religious conditionalities within zakat-based CCT frameworks while integrating Human Capital Theory with Islamic perspectives such as Maqasid al-Shariah to explain behavioural transformation and sustainable poverty alleviation in zakat distribution.