Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)

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What is the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)?

The OIC stands as the second-largest intergovernmental organization globally, following the United Nations. It brings together 57 Muslim-majority countries from four continents to promote Islamic solidarity, cooperation, and the protection of Muslim interests globally.

Established in 1969, the OIC plays a vital role in addressing political, economic, social, and humanitarian issues affecting the Muslim Ummah.

History and Establishment of the OIC

The OIC was founded on September 25, 1969, in response to the arson attack on the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem—one of Islam’s holiest sites. The attack highlighted the need for a united Muslim front to protect Islamic heritage and promote collective action.

The first meeting was held in Rabat, Morocco, with representatives from 24 Islamic countries. This marked the birth of an organization committed to safeguarding Islamic values, culture, and sovereignty.

Objectives and Purpose of OIC

The main goal of the OIC is to unify and strengthen cooperation among Muslim nations. Its core objectives include:

(a) Promoting Islamic unity and solidarity
(b) Safeguarding the rights and interests of Muslims worldwide
(c) Defending Islamic holy sites such as Al-Aqsa Mosque
(d) Supporting economic, scientific, cultural, and social development
(e) Promoting peace, justice, and human rights
(f) Combating Islamophobia, extremism, and terrorism

OIC Member Countries

As of 2025, the OIC has 57 member states across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and even parts of Europe and Latin America.

Notable member countries include:

* Saudi Arabia (Host of OIC headquarters)
* Pakistan
* Indonesia
* Turkey
* Iran
* Bangladesh
* Egypt
* Nigeria
* Malaysia

Palestine is also a full member despite not being recognized as a sovereign state by the UN.

Organizational Structure of the OIC

The OIC has a well-defined structure that governs its decision-making and implementation processes:

1. Islamic Summit

Held every 3 years, this is the highest authority where heads of state gather to discuss major Islamic world issues.

2. Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM)

Meets annually to review progress and adopt new strategies for cooperation and crisis management.

3. General Secretariat

The executive body led by the Secretary-General, responsible for implementing resolutions and coordinating OIC activities.

Current Secretary-General (2025): Hissein Brahim Taha (Chad)

Key OIC Institutions and Subsidiary Bodies

The OIC operates through specialized institutions to achieve its goals:

(a) Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) – funds infrastructure and development projects
(b) ISESCO – promotes education, science, and culture in Muslim countries
(c) Islamic Solidarity Fund (ISF) – provides humanitarian aid
(d) OIC Broadcasting Authority – supports Islamic media and communication

Role of OIC in Global Issues

1. Support for Palestine

The OIC strongly supports the Palestinian cause, calling for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.

2. Islamophobia and Defamation of Islam

The OIC actively works with the UN and other international bodies to combat Islamophobia, religious discrimination, and anti-Muslim hate speech.

3. Conflict Mediation

OIC has been involved in peace efforts in:

* Kashmir
* Afghanistan
* Yemen
* Sudan
* Syria

4. Humanitarian Relief

The OIC provides disaster relief, refugee support, and medical aid to member and non-member states in need.

Economic and Development Goals

The OIC encourages trade cooperation, Halal industry development, technology exchange, and poverty reduction programs.

Major economic initiatives include:

(a) Islamic Economic City projects
(b) Halal food certification standards
(c) Microfinance for small businesses
(d) Trade promotion via the OIC Trade Preferential System (TPS-OIC)

Challenges Faced by OIC

Despite its potential, the OIC faces several ongoing challenges:

(a) Lack of unity among member nations on political matters
(b) Limited authority to enforce decisions
(c) Dependency on donor states like Saudi Arabia
(d) Insufficient global influence in conflict resolution compared to major powers

Recent Activities of OIC (2020–2025)

(a) Condemned Israeli aggression in Gaza and West Bank
(b) Supported international campaigns against Qur’an burning incidents in Europe
(c) Launched COVID-19 support initiatives for underdeveloped Muslim nations
(d) Advocated for Muslim minorities in India, Myanmar (Rohingya), and China (Uyghurs)

Why the OIC Matters Today

Uniting 1.9 billion Muslims around the world, the OIC remains a guiding symbol of hope and togetherness. It plays a critical role in diplomatic, humanitarian, and developmental efforts, while also preserving Islamic values and cultural identity.

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is more than just a political alliance—it is the voice of the global Muslim community. As challenges in the modern world increase, the OIC’s ability to adapt, unite, and act will determine its impact on future generations.