The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) stands as a key intergovernmental body, demonstrating that the same religious, political and economic interests unite 57 member states and several observer countries. Since its inception, the OIC has been essential in increasing solidarity among Muslim nations. Central to its existence is the OIC charter, signed on 25 September 1969, which serves as the organisation’s foundational legal framework, determining its purpose, functions and goals.
The OIC’s charter is structured around 18 chapters, divided into 39 articles, offering a comprehensive outline of the organisation’s core objectives. These include promoting peace, stability and development while safeguarding the rights and sovereignty of its member states. The charter seeks to enhance Islamic solidarity in various domains, from political and economic cooperation to cultural and humanitarian initiatives. The OIC aims to strengthen ties among Muslim nations and provide collective responses to challenges facing the Islamic world.
The charter also describes the OIC’s organisational structure, which comprises several specialised institutions, including subsidiary organs, specialised bodies, affiliated organisations and standing committees. These bodies and the General Secretariat are essential to the OIC’s operations. They ensure that the organisation’s objectives are met across diverse fields such as education, healthcare, science and economic cooperation.
A significant moment in the OIC’s history came in March 2008, when the charter was revised during the 11th summit held in Senegal’s Dakar. The revision allowed the OIC to adapt to the swiftly evolving global landscape. It expanded its mandate to include contemporary challenges like combating terrorism, promoting human rights, addressing climate change and fostering socio-economic progression. These changes reflect the OIC’s commitment to remaining responsive to the needs of its members and the broader Muslim community.
The charter also highlights building constructive relationships with non-member states and global organisations. This approach increases global cooperation and promotes dialogue between the Islamic world and the international community, enabling the OIC to mediate conflicts and contribute to global peace efforts.
The OIC charter remains essential, guiding the organisation’s mission of enhancing unity, development and peace among Muslim nations. As the world continues to change, the charter’s principles provide a steady foundation for the OIC’s efforts to address the challenges facing its members and the broader global community.
