The 22nd regular session of the Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission (IPHRC) of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) commenced on Sunday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Over the course of its five-day duration, the session prioritizes addressing human rights violations, including racial discrimination and its various contemporary manifestations, with the aim of formulating comprehensive recommendations to address these issues.
The gathering is expected to produce a concluding document on Thursday.
This document will encompass numerous recommendations to bridge standard gaps and achieve alignment with international human rights instruments to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination.
The OIC, representing 57 countries across four continents, has cautioned against the dangers of racial discrimination, emphasizing the shared responsibility to eradicate it.
Yousef Al-Dobeay, OIC assistant secretary-general for political affairs, inaugurated the session with a speech that discussed “Elimination of Racial Discrimination: An Islamic and Human Rights Perspective.”
The session was attended by specialized experts from relevant international organizations, representatives of member states, and observer states, along with their national institutions.
The OIC assistant secretary-general commended Saudi Arabia for its generous support.
He acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the OIC’s IPHRC in Jeddah and praised the tangible efforts of the commission in providing consistent recommendations to member states on various issues.
These recommendations aim to ensure the global alignment of human rights and fundamental freedoms with Islamic values, stressed Al-Dobeay.
He highlighted the grave consequences of racial discrimination on individuals and affected communities.
The OIC and its member states remain at the forefront of those opposing racism, stressed Al-Dobeay in a speech he gave on behalf of OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha.
He also emphasized that the elimination of racial discrimination is a shared responsibility that involves individuals, communities, and governments alike.
