THE Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), in its formation, is the second largest after the United Nations Organization, comprising 57 Islamic States. It plays a vital role in promoting peace, stability and cooperation among the 193 UN member countries. Here are some potential global roles for the OIC:
Peace and Conflict Resolution: 1. Mediation: OIC can facilitate dialogue and negotiations to resolve conflicts in Muslim-majority regions. 2. Peacekeeping: OIC can contribute to international peacekeeping efforts, leveraging its member states’ military and humanitarian capabilities.
Humanitarian and Development Assistance: (i) Humanitarian aid: OIC coordinates relief efforts for Muslim communities affected by conflicts, natural disasters or poverty. (ii) Economic development: OIC can promote trade, investment and economic cooperation among member states.
Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding: (i) Promoting tolerance: OIC can foster dialogue and cooperation with other faith-based organizations to combat extremism and promote mutual understanding. (ii) Countering Islamophobia: OIC can advocate for Muslim minority rights and challenge stereotypes.
Global Governance and Advocacy: (i) UN cooperation: OIC collaborates with the United Nations on issues like peacekeeping, humanitarian aid and sustainable development. (ii) Human rights: OIC advocates for Muslim minority rights and promotes human rights in member states.
Education, Science, and Culture: (i) Educational exchange: OIC can facilitate scholarships, academic collaborations, and cultural exchange programs. (ii) Scientific cooperation: OIC can promote joint research initiatives and knowledge sharing at global level among its member-countries and with other countries of the UNO.
Challenges and Opportunities: (i) Growing economic influence: OIC member states’ growing economic power can enhance the organization’s global influence. (ii) Youth empowerment: OIC can tap into the potential of its vast youth population to drive positive change.
To enhance its global role, the OIC can 1. Strengthen institutional capacity, 2. Enhance cooperation with other international organizations, 3. Foster inclusive dialogue and decision-making processes, 4. Develop strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, 5. By leveraging its unique position, the OIC can become a more effective global player, promoting peace, stability, and cooperation among its member states and beyond, 6. Strategize for combating Islamophobia and promoting interfaith understanding.
—The writer is a senior journalist, based in Rawalpindi.
