The Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), H.E. Mr. Hissein Brahim Taha, emphasized the imperative of creating comprehensive plans to enhance the humanitarian action ecosystem in the Islamic world. He stressed the need for a more ambitious vision to address challenges encountered in this field, given the frequent occurrence of devastating disasters that demand immediate relief efforts to save lives. Mr. Brahim Taha firmly believed that it is the responsibility of Muslims to offer aid and assistance to their brethren in times of need. This will undoubtedly fortify the spirit of solidarity and interdependence among the people of the Ummah.
These sentiments were expressed in a compelling speech delivered by the Secretary-General at the commencement of the fifth consultative meeting between the Islamic Committee of the International Crescent (ICIC) and the National Societies of the Red Crescent and Red Cross in the OIC Member States. Saudi Red Crescent Authority had the honor of hosting this event in Jeddah from July 22-26, 2023, under the auspices of HRH Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Governor of Makkah Al-Mukarramah Region.
The Secretary-General expressed heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering efforts made by the ICIC and the National Societies of the Red Crescent and the Red Cross in the OIC Member States. He acknowledged the enormous pressure they face when confronted with catastrophic disasters and humanitarian crises, often surpassing their available resources and capabilities.
Moreover, the Secretary-General extended his gratitude to H.E. Dr. Jalal bin Muhammad Al-Owaisi, President of the Saudi Red Crescent, and his exceptional team for flawlessly organizing this session and their commendable work in the realm of humanitarian aid in the Member States.
Mr. Brahim Taha further confirmed that the OIC General Secretariat stands ready to cooperate closely with the ICIC and the National Societies of the Red Crescent and the Red Cross within the Member States. Their collective aim would be to provide support and assistance to those in dire need, especially those affected by natural or man-made disasters within the Member States.
It is vital to establish a framework that encompasses various aspects of the humanitarian action ecosystem. From the early detection of potential disasters to the efficient coordination of relief efforts, such plans must be comprehensive in nature. By doing so, the Islamic world can effectively respond to catastrophes and save countless lives.
Within this framework, it is essential to focus on enhancing collaboration and coordination between relevant bodies. The ICIC and the National Societies of the Red Crescent and Red Cross play a pivotal role in providing humanitarian aid in the Member States. By capitalizing on their collective knowledge and expertise, these organizations can develop joint initiatives to tackle current and future challenges effectively.
Furthermore, it is crucial to prioritize capacity-building endeavors within the Islamic world. By investing in training programs and resources, Member States can enhance their preparedness and response capabilities. This will enable them to handle complex emergencies more efficiently and mitigate the impact of disasters on affected communities.
Additionally, it is imperative to promote a culture of volunteerism and community engagement. By encouraging individuals to actively participate in humanitarian efforts, we can foster a sense of responsibility and empathy within society. This will ultimately contribute to a stronger and more resilient Islamic world, capable of effectively addressing any future humanitarian crises.
The Secretary-General’s call to action highlights the critical importance of strengthening the humanitarian action ecosystem in the Islamic world. By fostering collaboration, enhancing capacity-building, and promoting volunteerism, we can create a more efficient and effective response to disasters. The OIC, alongside the ICIC and the National Societies of the Red Crescent and Red Cross, stands ready to support these genuine endeavors, ensuring aid reaches those in need within the Member States. With a united effort, we can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals affected by humanitarian crises in the Islamic world.