Organisation of Islamic Cooperation

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), established in 1969, is an international organization comprising 57 member states, primarily Muslim-majority countries. It aims to safeguard and protect the interests of the Muslim world while promoting international peace and harmony. The OIC is the second-largest intergovernmental organization after the United Nations, and its member states span four continents.

Historical Background

The OIC was founded following a summit in Rabat, Morocco, in response to an arson attack on the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. This incident highlighted the need for a unified body to represent the collective voice of the Muslim world and address issues affecting Muslims globally. The organization’s headquarters are in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and it operates through various organs, including the Islamic Summit, the Council of Foreign Ministers, and the General Secretariat.

Objectives and Principles

The OIC’s objectives, as outlined in its Charter, include:

Enhancing and consolidating the bonds of fraternity and solidarity among member states.
Safeguarding and protecting the common interests and support of member states in international fora.
Promoting cooperation in social, economic, cultural, scientific, and other vital fields.
Working to eliminate racial segregation and discrimination and opposing colonialism in all forms.
Creating a conducive atmosphere for promoting cooperation and understanding between member states and other countries.

The OIC operates on principles such as respect for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of member states, non-interference in the internal affairs of member states, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.

Structure and Institutions

The OIC’s primary decision-making body is the Islamic Summit, which consists of Kings, Heads of State, and Governments of member states. The summit convenes every three years to set the organization’s priorities and agenda. The Council of Foreign Ministers, meeting annually, implements the summit’s decisions and formulates policies. The General Secretariat, headed by the Secretary-General, oversees the day-to-day operations and administration.

Several subsidiary organs, specialized institutions, and affiliated institutions operate under the OIC umbrella, including:

The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB): Provides financial resources for development projects in member states.
The Islamic Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ISESCO): Promotes education, science, culture, and communication.
The International Islamic Fiqh Academy: Offers guidance on Shariah law and contemporary issues.
The Islamic Solidarity Fund: Supports humanitarian and cultural projects.

Key Issues and Initiatives

Political and Economic Cooperation

The OIC actively engages in political diplomacy to address conflicts and crises affecting member states. It has played roles in mediating conflicts in countries like Afghanistan, Somalia, and Syria. The organization also advocates for the rights of Palestinians and supports the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

Economically, the OIC promotes intra-OIC trade and investment. The Ten-Year Programme of Action, adopted in 2005, emphasizes economic development, trade facilitation, and poverty alleviation among member states. The IsDB plays a pivotal role in financing projects that boost economic growth and infrastructure development.

Social and Cultural Initiatives

The OIC prioritizes education, science, and technology to foster development. ISESCO’s programs aim to improve literacy rates, enhance educational systems, and promote cultural heritage. The organization also addresses issues like women’s empowerment, youth development, and healthcare. It launched initiatives such as the OIC Women’s Development Organization and the OIC Youth Strategy to address these areas.

Human Rights and Humanitarian Aid

The OIC’s Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission (IPHRC) promotes and protects human rights in member states while respecting Islamic values. The organization also responds to humanitarian crises, providing aid to victims of natural disasters, conflicts, and other emergencies through the Islamic Solidarity Fund and the OIC Humanitarian Affairs Department.

Challenges and Criticisms

Despite its efforts, the OIC faces challenges in achieving its objectives. These include political differences among member states, limited financial resources, and the complexity of addressing diverse issues in a heterogeneous Muslim world. Critics argue that the organization’s response to crises is often slow and that it struggles to enforce its resolutions and policies effectively.

Conclusion

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation remains a vital platform for collaboration among Muslim-majority countries. Its multifaceted approach to political, economic, social, and cultural issues demonstrates its commitment to improving the lives of Muslims worldwide and contributing to global peace and development. While challenges persist, the OIC’s efforts to promote solidarity and cooperation continue to hold significant importance in the international arena.