The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) stands as a pivotal intergovernmental body, established in 1969, uniting 57 member states across the globe. Initially known as the Organisation of the Islamic Conference, its core mission is to serve as "the collective voice of the Muslim world." Through its endeavors, the OIC actively works to safeguard and protect the diverse interests of the Muslim community worldwide, all while promoting a broader spirit of international peace and harmony.

A Vast Global Collective

Boasting a significant presence on the international stage, the OIC brings together 57 member states. As of 2015, this impressive collective represented a population exceeding 1.8 billion people, a figure that accounts for just under a quarter of the world's entire population. Remarkably, 49 of these nations are Muslim-majority countries, underscoring the organization's profound demographic and cultural reach. Spanning a vast landmass, the collective area of these member states covers an expansive 31.66 million square kilometers, highlighting the geographical breadth of the OIC's influence.

Diplomatic Reach and Operational Structure

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation maintains a robust international presence, demonstrating its commitment to global diplomacy and collaboration. It holds permanent delegations to both the United Nations and the European Union, ensuring its voice is heard and its interests are represented on critical global platforms. Facilitating this extensive international engagement, the OIC operates with three official languages: Arabic, English, and French, fostering broad communication among its diverse members and international partners. To effectively manage its broad mandate, the OIC maintains various affiliated, specialized, and subsidiary organs, all operating cohesively within the established framework of the OIC Charter.

Frequently Asked Questions About the OIC

What is the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)?

The OIC is an intergovernmental organization founded in 1969, comprising 57 member states, that acts as "the collective voice of the Muslim world" to safeguard its interests and promote international peace and harmony.

When was the OIC founded and what was its original name?

The OIC was founded in 1969 and was originally known as the Organisation of the Islamic Conference.

How many member states does the OIC have?

The OIC consists of 57 member states.

What are the official languages of the OIC?

The three official languages of the OIC are Arabic, English, and French.

What is the collective population and area of OIC member states?

As of 2015, the collective population was over 1.8 billion people, covering a total area of 31.66 million square kilometers. Among these, 49 are Muslim-majority countries.