GCC Launches Observatory to Combat Extremism

Doha, October 6, 2024 — The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, underscored the urgent need to counter the global rise of Islamophobia and announced a proposal to establish a GCC Scientific Observatory to Combat Extremism. Speaking at the 10th meeting of the ministers responsible for Islamic Affairs and Endowments in GCC countries, held in Doha, Qatar, Albudaiwi described the observatory as a vital tool to showcase the true image of Islam and confront hate campaigns targeting the religion.

Context and Background

The 10th meeting of the ministers responsible for Islamic Affairs and Endowments in GCC countries took place in Doha, Qatar, chaired by Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs of Qatar, Ghanem bin Shaheen Al Ghanim, president of the current session. The gathering brought together ministers from across the GCC to discuss joint efforts in religious affairs and community development. Albudaiwi highlighted that the meeting was held in implementation of the visions and directives of the leaders of the GCC countries, emphasizing unity, integration, and cooperation in various fields. This aligns with the GCC’s longstanding commitment to promoting moderate Islam and combating extremism.

Key Details

Albudaiwi praised the proposal to establish the GCC Scientific Observatory to Combat Extremism, which will be overseen by the Committee of Ministers responsible for Islamic Affairs and Endowments. He noted that the observatory would play a crucial role in highlighting the true image of Islam and countering hate campaigns. Additionally, he commended the preparation of two papers: one on the role of Ministries of Endowments and Islamic Affairs in supporting people with disabilities, and another titled “The Importance of Caring for Historical Mosques.” He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs in the Sultanate of Oman and the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for their efforts in preparing these papers. These initiatives reflect the GCC’s focus on social welfare and cultural preservation.

Implications and Impact

The establishment of the GCC Scientific Observatory to Combat Extremism is a significant step in the global fight against Islamophobia. By documenting and countering extremist narratives, the observatory will help protect the reputation of Islam and its followers worldwide. This move is expected to foster interfaith dialogue and promote a better understanding of Islamic teachings. Furthermore, the emphasis on supporting people with disabilities and preserving historical mosques demonstrates the GCC’s holistic approach to societal development, blending religious values with modern needs. These efforts are likely to enhance the GCC’s standing as a model of moderate and progressive Islamic governance.

Vision 2030 Alignment

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a comprehensive plan to diversify the economy and modernize society, aligns closely with the GCC’s initiatives. The Kingdom, through its Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, actively promotes moderation and tolerance, key pillars of Vision 2030. By supporting the establishment of the observatory and contributing to papers on social and cultural issues, Saudi Arabia reinforces its leadership in the Islamic world and its commitment to global peace and understanding. These efforts are in line with Vision 2030’s goals of fostering a vibrant society and a strong international presence.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the GCC Scientific Observatory to Combat Extremism?

A1. It is a proposed observatory by the GCC to monitor and counter extremist narratives, aiming to highlight the true image of Islam and confront hate campaigns globally.

Q2. Who proposed the establishment of the observatory?

A2. The proposal was discussed at the 10th meeting of GCC ministers responsible for Islamic Affairs and Endowments, with support from GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi.

Q3. When and where was the 10th meeting held?

A3. The meeting was held in Doha, Qatar, on October 6, 2024, chaired by Qatar’s Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, Ghanem bin Shaheen Al Ghanim.

Q4. What are the two papers praised by Albudaiwi?

A4. One on supporting people with disabilities and another on the importance of caring for historical mosques, prepared by Oman and Saudi Arabia respectively.

Q5. How does the observatory aim to combat Islamophobia?

A5. By documenting and countering hate campaigns, providing accurate information about Islam, and promoting interfaith dialogue to foster understanding.

Q6. What role do GCC leaders play in these initiatives?

A6. GCC leaders provide visions and directives emphasizing unity, integration, and cooperation among member states in various fields, including religious affairs.

Q7. Why is supporting people with disabilities important in this context?

A7. It reflects Islamic values of compassion and inclusivity, and aligns with modern societal needs, showcasing the GCC’s holistic approach to welfare.

Q8. What is the significance of caring for historical mosques?

A8. It preserves Islamic heritage and culture, maintains religious sites for future generations, and promotes tourism and community pride.

Q9. How does Saudi Arabia contribute to these efforts?

A9. Through its Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, Saudi Arabia prepared a paper on historical mosques and supports moderation and tolerance aligned with Vision 2030.

Q10. What is the expected impact of the observatory on global perceptions of Islam?

A10. It will help correct misconceptions, counter negative stereotypes, and present Islam as a religion of peace, thereby improving global perceptions.

Q11. How does this initiative align with Vision 2030?

A11. Vision 2030 promotes a moderate, tolerant society and global engagement; the observatory supports these goals by combating extremism and enhancing Saudi leadership.

Q12. What other areas of cooperation were discussed at the meeting?

A12. Cooperation on Islamic affairs, endowments, social welfare, and cultural preservation, reflecting the GCC’s comprehensive approach to integration.

Q13. Who chaired the 10th meeting?

A13. Ghanem bin Shaheen Al Ghanim, Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs of Qatar, presided over the session as president of the current session.

Q14. What is the role of the Committee of Ministers responsible for Islamic Affairs and Endowments?

A14. The committee oversees the observatory’s establishment and coordinates joint efforts among GCC countries on religious and social issues.

Q15. How does the observatory plan to counter hate campaigns?

A15. By monitoring hate speech, providing factual counter-narratives, and collaborating with international organizations to promote tolerance.

Q16. What did Albudaiwi say about the importance of the meeting?

A16. He stressed that it implements the visions of GCC leaders for unity and cooperation, and addresses critical issues like Islamophobia and social support.

Q17. Which countries prepared the two papers?

A17. The Sultanate of Oman prepared the paper on supporting people with disabilities, and Saudi Arabia prepared the one on historical mosques.

Q18. How will the observatory benefit the GCC countries?

A18. It will enhance their collective efforts against extremism, strengthen their international image, and promote moderate Islamic values.

Q19. What is the broader significance of this initiative for the Islamic world?

A19. It sets a precedent for regional cooperation against Islamophobia, potentially inspiring similar efforts in other Islamic organizations.

Q20. How can the public support these initiatives?

A20. By promoting tolerance, engaging in interfaith dialogue, and supporting GCC efforts through awareness and community participation.

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