OIC Marks International Day for Elimination of Violence

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) joined the international community on November 25, 2024, in observing the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, reaffirming its commitment to protecting women and girls across its member states and around the world. The commemoration, announced via the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), serves as an annual reminder of the persistent challenges faced by women and girls who are subjected to violence and exploitation, with particular concern for those living in conflict zones where protection mechanisms are weakest.

This year’s international theme, “Invest to Prevent Violence against Women & Girls! #NoExcuse”, underscores the urgent need for dedicated funding and proactive measures to prevent violence before it occurs. The OIC’s participation reflects the organization’s broader mandate to promote the rights and dignity of women in its 57 member states. Isn’t it significant that a major international body is drawing global attention to this cause? The OIC’s stance also mirrors the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s own evolving efforts to empower women as part of its ambitious national transformation agenda.

Context and Background

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is observed annually on November 25, a date designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 1999 to raise public awareness of the scale of gender-based violence worldwide. The day marks the start of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign that runs until December 10, Human Rights Day. For the OIC, headquartered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, this observance aligns with its charter principles of promoting justice, human dignity, and the well-being of all peoples in the Islamic world. How does the OIC translate these principles into concrete action across such a diverse group of nations?

The OIC has long maintained that addressing violence against women is not only a moral imperative but also a prerequisite for sustainable development and social stability. In recent years, the organization has intensified its advocacy through its Department of Women and Family Affairs and various ministerial resolutions. The OIC’s Secretary-General, Hissein Brahim Taha, has consistently emphasized that empowering women is central to the organization’s vision of a peaceful and prosperous Muslim world. The 2024 theme, focusing on investment in prevention, signals a shift from reactive responses to proactive, systemic solutions. This approach resonates strongly with member states that are pursuing comprehensive legal and social reforms.

Violence against women remains a global scourge, affecting millions regardless of nationality, income, or education. The World Health Organization estimates that nearly one in three women worldwide has experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives. In conflict zones, the risks multiply dramatically, with women and girls facing heightened threats of sexual violence, trafficking, and exploitation. The OIC’s explicit condemnation of such violence in conflict settings highlights the intersection of security, human rights, and humanitarian law. Why is it that in the 21st century, so many women still live under the shadow of violence?

Key Details

In his statement marking the occasion, OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha highlighted the organization’s unwavering commitment to addressing violence against women and empowering them across all member states. He reiterated the OIC’s strong condemnation of ongoing violence against women globally and urged concerted international efforts to put an end to it. Taha’s remarks underscored that the OIC views the elimination of gender-based violence as a shared responsibility requiring collaboration among governments, civil society, and international partners. The Secretary-General’s message also called for increased investment in prevention strategies, echoing the 2024 theme’s emphasis on funding as a catalyst for change.

The OIC’s efforts are guided by its Plan of Action for the Advancement of Women (OPAAW), a comprehensive framework adopted to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment in member states. The plan focuses on areas such as education, health, economic participation, and legal protection. Under this framework, the OIC has organized capacity-building workshops, supported legislative reforms, and facilitated knowledge exchange among member countries. The organization also works closely with UN agencies and other international bodies to harmonize efforts and avoid duplication. These initiatives demonstrate a sustained, institutional commitment rather than symbolic gestures. What more can be done to ensure that these frameworks translate into real-world safety for women and girls?

The 2024 theme, “Invest to Prevent Violence against Women & Girls! #NoExcuse”, emphasizes that prevention is both more effective and more cost-efficient than responding to violence after it occurs. Investing in prevention means funding education programs that challenge harmful norms, supporting community-based interventions, and strengthening legal systems to hold perpetrators accountable. It also means ensuring that survivors have access to essential services, including shelters, healthcare, and legal aid. The OIC’s messaging aligns with global evidence showing that well-funded prevention strategies significantly reduce incidence rates. The #NoExcuse campaign further stresses that no cultural, religious, or social justification can ever excuse violence against women.

International and Regional Impact

The OIC’s observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women sends a powerful signal across the Islamic world and beyond. As the second-largest intergovernmental organization after the United Nations, representing over 1.8 billion Muslims, the OIC’s stance carries substantial moral and political weight. By publicly condemning violence against women and committing to preventive measures, the organization encourages member states to prioritize gender-based violence in their national agendas. This collective approach can amplify individual countries’ efforts and foster a sense of shared accountability. How might this unified stance influence policy changes at the national level in countries where legal protections remain weak?

At the regional level, the OIC’s advocacy complements initiatives by the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Arab League, and other regional bodies. In Saudi Arabia, for instance, the government has enacted sweeping reforms aimed at protecting women’s rights, including laws against domestic violence, harassment, and discrimination in the workplace. These measures are part of a broader modernization drive under Vision 2030, which seeks to increase women’s participation in the workforce and public life. The OIC’s emphasis on prevention aligns with Saudi Arabia’s investment in educational campaigns and support services for women. This synergy between regional and international efforts creates a conducive environment for meaningful progress. Could such alignment accelerate the pace of change across the broader Middle East and North Africa region?

Globally, the OIC’s engagement reinforces the objectives of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5 on gender equality and Goal 16 on peace, justice, and strong institutions. The organization’s active participation in international commemorations like November 25 demonstrates its willingness to collaborate across cultural and religious lines. By championing women’s protection and empowerment, the OIC helps bridge divides and promotes a more inclusive interpretation of human rights. This cross-cultural dialogue is essential for building consensus on sensitive issues and ensuring that no region is left behind in the global fight against gender-based violence.

Economic and Strategic Significance

Investing in the prevention of violence against women yields substantial economic dividends. Studies by the World Bank and other institutions show that gender-based violence imposes enormous costs on economies, including lost productivity, increased healthcare expenditures, and reduced human capital development. When women are safe and empowered, they contribute more fully to their communities and national economies. The OIC’s call to invest in prevention therefore carries strategic economic implications for its member states. By reducing violence, countries can unlock the full potential of half their populations, driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth. Isn’t it clear that protecting women is not just a moral duty but also an economic imperative?

For Saudi Arabia, the economic case for women’s empowerment is central to Vision 2030. The Kingdom has set ambitious targets to increase women’s labor force participation to 30% by 2030, up from around 22% in recent years. Achieving this goal requires not only legal reforms and job opportunities but also a safe environment where women can work and live without fear of violence or harassment. Saudi Arabia has introduced strict penalties for harassment and domestic abuse, alongside public awareness campaigns and support hotlines. These efforts are part of a holistic approach that recognizes the interdependence of social protection and economic progress. The OIC’s preventive focus complements these national initiatives, reinforcing the message that ending violence is a shared responsibility and a strategic investment.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The OIC’s commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women aligns seamlessly with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which places women’s empowerment at the heart of the Kingdom’s transformation. Under the leadership of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia has enacted unprecedented reforms to expand women’s rights, from lifting the driving ban to increasing female representation in the Shura Council and senior government positions. These changes reflect a deep commitment to building an inclusive society where every individual can contribute to national development. The OIC, headquartered in Jeddah, serves as a vital platform for sharing Saudi Arabia’s experience and learning from other member states. How can the synergy between national vision and international cooperation further accelerate women’s empowerment?

Looking ahead, the OIC’s continued advocacy and the Kingdom’s progressive policies are expected to drive lasting change across the Muslim world. By investing in prevention, promoting education, and strengthening legal frameworks, both the OIC and Saudi Arabia are laying the foundation for a future where women and girls can live free from violence and reach their full potential. This forward-looking approach not only enhances the well-being of individuals and families but also contributes to the stability and prosperity of entire nations. As the global community marks November 25 each year, the OIC’s message rings clear: there is no excuse for violence, and the time to invest in prevention is now. Won’t future generations look back at this era as a turning point for women’s rights in the Islamic world?

20 Questions

Q1. What is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women?

A1. It is an annual observance on November 25, designated by the United Nations in 1999 to raise awareness about gender-based violence and mobilize action to end it worldwide.

Q2. Why did the OIC mark this day in 2024?

A2. The OIC joined the global community to reaffirm its commitment to protecting women and girls, condemning violence, and promoting prevention efforts across its 57 member states.

Q3. What was the theme for 2024?

A3. The theme was “Invest to Prevent Violence against Women & Girls! #NoExcuse”, emphasizing funding for proactive measures to stop violence before it occurs.

Q4. Who is the Secretary-General of the OIC?

A4. Hissein Brahim Taha is the Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, headquartered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Q5. What did the OIC Secretary-General say about violence against women?

A5. He highlighted the OIC’s commitment to addressing violence, empowering women, and urged concerted international efforts to end violence against women globally.

Q6. Where is the OIC headquartered?

A6. The OIC is headquartered in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and serves as the second-largest intergovernmental organization after the United Nations.

Q7. How many member states does the OIC have?

A7. The OIC has 57 member states, representing over 1.8 billion Muslims across four continents, making it a significant voice in the Islamic world.

Q8. What is the OIC’s Plan of Action for the Advancement of Women?

A8. OPAAW is a comprehensive framework adopted by the OIC to promote gender equality, women’s empowerment, and legal protection across member states through targeted initiatives.

Q9. Why is investing in prevention important?

A9. Investing in prevention is more effective and cost-efficient than responding after violence occurs, reducing human suffering and economic costs while fostering safer societies.

Q10. How does violence against women affect economies?

A10. It imposes enormous costs, including lost productivity, increased healthcare expenses, and reduced human capital, hindering economic growth and development.

Q11. What is Saudi Arabia’s stance on violence against women?

A11. Saudi Arabia has enacted strict laws against domestic violence and harassment, launched awareness campaigns, and integrated women’s protection into its Vision 2030 reforms.

Q12. How does the OIC’s work align with Vision 2030?

A12. Both prioritize women’s empowerment, legal reforms, and social protection, creating synergies that advance gender equality and sustainable development in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

Q13. What are the 16 Days of Activism?

A13. It is a global campaign running from November 25 to December 10, Human Rights Day, to challenge violence against women and girls through advocacy and action.

Q14. What role do OIC member states play in preventing violence?

A14. Member states implement legal reforms, educational programs, and support services, guided by OIC frameworks like OPAAW to ensure women’s safety and empowerment.

Q15. How can individuals support the elimination of violence against women?

A15. Individuals can raise awareness, challenge harmful norms, support survivors, and advocate for policies that protect women and girls in their communities.

Q16. What does the #NoExcuse campaign signify?

A16. It stresses that no cultural, religious, or social justification can ever excuse violence against women, urging collective responsibility to end it.

Q17. What international organizations collaborate with the OIC on this issue?

A17. The OIC works with UN agencies, including UN Women and WHO, as well as regional bodies, to harmonize efforts and share best practices.

Q18. How does the OIC support women in conflict zones?

A18. The OIC condemns violence in conflict zones, advocates for humanitarian law, and supports programs providing protection, aid, and rehabilitation for affected women and girls.

Q19. What progress has Saudi Arabia made in women’s empowerment?

A19. Saudi Arabia has lifted the driving ban, increased female workforce participation, appointed women to senior government roles, and strengthened legal protections against harassment and abuse.

Q20. What is the ultimate goal of the OIC’s efforts?

A20. The ultimate goal is a world where women and girls live free from violence, enjoy equal rights, and contribute fully to the development and prosperity of their societies.

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