Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)

In News: The General Secretariat of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) “condemned and denounced” the comments on Prophet Muhammed made by two erstwhile national spokespersons of the ruling party

What is the OIC?

• The OIC (57-nation grouping) was established at a 1969 summit in Rabat (Morocco).
• It endeavours to establish solidarity among member states, support restoration of complete sovereignty and territorial integrity of any member state under occupation; protect, defend and combat defamation of Islam, prevent growing dissention in Muslim societies and work to ensure that member states take a united stand on the international stage.
• The OIC has consultative and cooperative relations with the UN and other inter-governmental organisations to protect the interest of Muslims

How does the OIC function?

• The Islamic Summit, composed of Kings and heads of state, is the supreme authority of the organisation.
• Convening every two years, it deliberates, takes policy decisions, provides guidance on issues relevant to the organisation
• The Council of Foreign Ministers is the chief decision-making body and meets annually to decide on how to implement the OIC’s general policies.
• The council also appoints, for a period of five years, the Secretary General, who is the chief administrative officer of the grouping.
• UN members with a Muslim majority can join the organisation.
• The membership is to be ratified with full consensus at the OIC’s Council of Foreign Ministers. The same provisions apply for acquiring an observer status.
• The OIC is financed by the member states proportionate to their national incomes.

What has been the nature of India’s relationship with the OIC?

• India’s association with the 57-nation grouping has not been easy.
• Even though the country has good relations with the UAE and Saudi Arabia, its membership and engagement has been constantly challenged by Pakistan.
• In 1969, Islamabad’s opposition to Indian participation at the first OIC Plenary resulted in the Indian delegation being turned back from the venue at the last minute.
• In 2018, Bangladesh had proposed India be given the observer status at the OIC considering its sizeable Muslim population – a move which received support from Turkey but was opposed by Pakistan.
• About 50 years later, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj addressed the OIC Plenary of Foreign Ministers in Abu Dhabi as a guest of honour. The invitation was extended by the UAE’s Foreign Minister
• Islamabad’s apprehension stems from the fear that India’s involvement in the grouping could influence the opinion of other Muslim states — not boding well for its influence.

Source: The Hindu

Previous Year Questions

Q.1) With reference to ‘Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IOR-ARC)’, consider the following statements: (2015)

1. It was established very recently in response to incidents of piracy and accidents of oil spills.
2. It is an alliance meant for maritime security only

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2