Chapter # 7 – Pakistan in the World Community
7.1.4 Evaluate the Reasons for the Establishment of OIC
Introduction
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is the second-largest intergovernmental organization after the United Nations, comprising 57 member states spread over four continents. It was established in 1969 in response to the growing need for solidarity and cooperation among Islamic countries.
Objectives
The primary objective of the OIC is to promote unity, solidarity, and cooperation among Islamic countries, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration on various issues of common interest.
Organizational Structure
- Summit: The highest decision-making body of the OIC, comprising heads of state and government, convenes biennially to discuss and address key issues facing the Islamic world.
- Council of Foreign Ministers: The council meets annually to coordinate and formulate policies on political, economic, and social issues, and oversee the implementation of decisions taken by the summit.
- General Secretariat: The General Secretariat, headquartered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, serves as the administrative arm of the OIC, implementing policies, coordinating activities, and facilitating communication among member states.
- Permanent Representatives Committee: The Permanent Representatives Committee comprises the permanent representatives of member states to the OIC. It meets regularly to prepare for meetings of the CFM and to coordinate the implementation of decisions taken by the OIC.
- Specialized Institutions: The OIC has various specialized institutions and affiliated bodies focusing on areas such as education, science and technology, economic development, and humanitarian assistance.
- Specialized Committees and Working Groups: The OIC establishes specialized committees and working groups to address specific issues or sectors of cooperation, such as political affairs, economic cooperation, social development, and science and technology.
- Affiliated Institutions and Bodies: The OIC also includes affiliated institutions and bodies that focus on specialized areas such as women’s development, youth empowerment, health, and humanitarian affairs.
Reasons for the Establishment of OIC
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) was established for several reasons, primarily to address the needs and concerns of Muslim-majority countries and Muslim communities worldwide. Here are some key reasons for its establishment:
- Promotion of Islamic Solidarity: The OIC was founded to promote solidarity and cooperation among Muslim-majority countries and Muslim communities globally. It aims to foster unity, understanding, and mutual support among member states.
- Protection of Muslim Interests: One of the primary objectives of the OIC is to protect the interests and rights of Muslims, both within member states and internationally. This includes addressing issues such as discrimination, persecution, and human rights violations against Muslims.
- Response to Challenges: The OIC was established in response to various challenges faced by Muslim countries, such as the Arab-Israeli conflict, the Iranian Revolution, and the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.
- Political Cooperation: The OIC serves as a platform for member states to discuss and coordinate their positions on political issues of common concern, including regional conflicts, sovereignty issues, and geopolitical challenges.
- Economic Cooperation: Economic cooperation and development are important aspects of the OIC’s agenda. Member states collaborate on economic initiatives, trade agreements, and development projects to foster economic growth and prosperity within the Muslim world.
- Cultural and Social Cooperation: The OIC promotes cultural exchange, educational cooperation, and social development initiatives among member states. It aims to preserve and promote Islamic heritage, values, and traditions while fostering dialogue and understanding with other cultures and civilizations.
- Humanitarian Assistance: The OIC plays a significant role in providing humanitarian assistance and support to Muslim communities affected by conflicts, natural disasters, and humanitarian crises. It coordinates relief efforts, provides aid, and advocates for the rights of affected populations.
- Religious Cooperation: The OIC works to promote dialogue and cooperation among member states on religious matters, including religious tolerance, interfaith dialogue, and combating extremism and terrorism in the name of Islam.
- Advocacy in International Forums: The OIC represents the collective voice of the Muslim world in international forums and organizations. It advocates for the rights and interests of Muslim-majority countries and communities on global issues such as peace, security, development, and human rights.
Conclusion
The establishment of the OIC was driven by the desire for unity, cooperation, and solidarity among Muslim countries, addressing various challenges and promoting economic, social, cultural, and political development.