REPORT AND RESOLUTIONS ON POLITICAL, MUSLIM MINORITIES AND COMMUNITIES, LEGAL AND INFORMATION AFFAIRS
ADOTPED BY THE TWENTY-SEVENTH SESSION OF THE ISLAMIC CONFERENCE OF FOREIGN MINISTERS
(SESSION OF ISLAM AND GLOBALIZATION)
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
24-27 RABIUL AWAL, 1421H , 27-30 JUNE 2000
on the Political Situation in Sierra Leone
on the Preservation of the security and territorial integrity of the Islamic States
on US attack on Al-Shifa Pharmaceutical Plan in Khartoum
On Combating the illegal proliferation, build-up and circulation of light weapons
On the Safeguarding of the rights of Muslim communities and minorities in non-OIC Member States
On Question of Muslims in Southern Philippines
On the situation of Turkish Muslim minority in Western Thrace
On the Muslim minority in Myanmar
On the International Islamic Court of Justice
On the Follow-up of the Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam
On Coordination Among Member States in the Field of Human Rights
On Campaigns waged by certain Non-governmental Organizations on (NGO’s) against a number of OIC Member States targeting the Islamic Sharia under the slogans of protecting human rights
On the Status of Signature and Ratification of the Agreements concluded under the Auspices of the OIC
On the Convening of an International Conference under the Auspices of the U.N. to Define Terrorism and distinguish it from Peoples struggle for National Liberation
On the OIC Convention For Combating International Terrorism
On the Strengthening of Islamic Solidarity in Combating Hijacking
On Criteria for membership of the OIC
On Granting the Observer Status to the Parliamentary Union of the OIC Member States
On OIC Inputs to the World Conference Against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance
On the Defamation of Islam
On the Role of Information and Communication in Promoting the Just Causes and Image of Islam
On the Information Plan and Problems of Financing
On the Information Strategy and Its Implementation Mechanism
On the International Islamic News Agency (IINA)
On the Islamic States Broadcasting Organization (ISBO)
ON THE POLITICAL SITUATION IN SIERRA LEONE
The Twenty-Seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 24 to 27 Rabi ul Awal 1421H ( 27-30 June 2000),
Having noted with great satisfaction the conclusion of the Abidjan Peace Agreement pioneered by the Government of the Cote d'Ivoire in November 1996 which the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) reneged, the Lome Peace Accord of 7th July, 1999 brokered by ECOWAS under the auspices of the President of the Republic of Togo, the then Chairman of ECOWAS.
Deploring the recent events of early May 2000 culminating in the RUF rebels attacks on the United Nations Mission (UNAMSIL) keepers resulting in the holding of 500 peace keepers as hostages, the shooting and killing of eighteen Sierra Leoneans during a peaceful demonstration at the residence of corporal Foday Saybana Sankoh which is a blatant violation of the Lome Peace Agreement.
Noting the efforts of ECOWAS, the United Nations, the OAU and other international organizations to bring peace to Sierra Leone and the sub-region;
Aware also that a large number of Sierra Leone nationals including professionals, were forced to flee to neighbouring countries or elsewhere as refugees, thus imposing a heavy burden particularly on the Republic of Guinea, Republic of the Gambia, the Republic of Cote d’Ivoire, the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Republic of Ghana and the Republic of Liberia;
Taking note of the Secretary General’s report on the situation in Sierra Leone as evidence in (Document No. ICFM/27-2000/PIL/D.33);
1.Expresses its deep appreciation to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the United Nations, the OAU, other International Organizations etc. and to the Government of the Republic of Togo for the conclusion of the peace agreement and recalls the positive action undertaken by the countries which have contributed forces to the ECOMOG Peacekeeping force namely, Nigeria, Guinea, Ghana, Mali, Niger and Gambia for the restoration of constitutional order in Sierra Leone and the reinstatement in his high office of H.E. Alhaji Dr. Ahmed Tejan Kabbah, in accordance with the ECOWAS decision of August 1997 and the desire of the OIC and the international community.
2.Pays tributes to ECOMOG soldiers for their high sense of duty and sacrifice.
3.Commends the Secretary General of ECOWAS, the Committee of Seven ECOWAS Ministers, the OAU; the United Nations, the International Community, and other International Organisations for their financial, moral and other relevant contributions made towards the hosting and sustaining the protracted peace negotiations.
4. Welcomes the setting of a new United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL) with a revised mandate of peace enforcement, the decision of the Nigerian Government and ECOWAS to redeploy their troops in Sierra Leone to arrest the deteriorating security situation in Sierra Leone, the presence of British troops lending support to UN troops by protecting Lungi International Airport to enable the UN to build up, providing training facilities to the Sierra Leone national army.
5.Condemns absolutely the frequent and unprovoked attacks by the RUF rebels on the UNAMSIL personnel, international journalists and the unarmed civilian populations.
6.Appeals to all Member States and other humanitarian/financial organizations to extend urgent financial and material assistance to the Government of President Dr. Ahmed Tejan Kabbah and to enable him undertake the economic and social rehabilitation of the country and to facilitate the return to their home of refugees living in neighbouring countries.
7.Requests all Member States to contribute to the restoration of confidence between the Government and the Lome signing parties and requests the Secretary General to send an Assessment Mission to Sierra Leone to determine the contribution that the OIC can bring to the process and in particular to support the implementation of the agreement by actively participating in the democratic election scheduled to take place in 2001 in Sierra Leone.
8.Urges the OIC Member States to pledge their generous assistance to Sierra Leone for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the country following the mayhem and destruction caused by the civil war.
9.Further urges Member States to extend appropriate assistance to neighbouring states to mitigate the impact of the influx of the hundreds of thousands of the Sierra Leonean refugees pending their return home.
10.Decide to establish a Contact Group on Sierra Leone to propose necessary measures and concrete goals to allow a more effective involvement of the OIC in the restoration of peace and security in Sierra Leone.
11.Requests the Secretary General to follow up the implementation of this resolution and submit a report on this matter to the Twenty-eighth session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON THE PRESERVATION OF THE SECURITY AND TERRITORIAL INTEGRITY OF THE ISLAMIC STATES
The Twenty-Seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 24 to 27 Rabi ul Awal 1421H ( 27-30 June 2000),
Recognizing the great importance of achieving security and stability in the region without which the people cannot achieve their aspirations in development and progress towards a free and decent life;
Committed to preserving the fundamental interests of the Islamic Ummah and Islamic solidarity;
Taking note of the Secretary General’s report on the issue (Document No. ICFM/27-2000/PIL/D.35);
1.Affirms its keenness on the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Iraq as well as its regional security.
2.Calls for putting an end to the acts of intervention in Iraq and for refraining in the future from any such acts in order to preserve the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iraq and the inviolability of its borders.
3.Requests the Secretary General to follow up the implementation of this resolution.
ON US ATTACK ON AL-SHIFA PHARMACEUTICAL PLANT IN KHARTOUM
The Twenty-Seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 24 to 27 Rabi ul Awal 1421H ( 27-30 June 2000),
Emphasizing the principles and objectives of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference which call for solidarity among Islamic States;
Recalling the principles of the UN Charter which stipulate the commitment on the part of Member States to desist from the use, or threat of use of force, and to settle their disputes through peaceful means;
Also recalling its previous resolutions to assist the Republic of Sudan to counter dangers that threaten its security and national unity;
Welcoming resolutions adopted by the League of Arab States, the Eighth Summit of Non-Aligned States as well as the continuous efforts of the Arab and Islamic Group at the United Nations, which roundly condemned the missile attack launched by the USA against Al-Shifa Pharmaceutical Plant in Khartoum on 20 August 1998, and supported Sudan's request to set up an international committee of enquiry;
Reiterating its total rejection of the use of force and all forms of terrorism, including state terrorism;
Having considered the Report of the Secretary General (ICFM/27-2000/PIL/D.36);
1.Expresses its full support and assistance to the request of the Republic of Sudan to constitute an international committee of inquiry, under the supervision of the UN Security Council in order to investigate into the allegations of the USA that Al-Shifa Pharmaceutical Plant produced toxic chemical gasses.
2.Requests again the USA Government to positively respond to the request of the Sudan to set up a committee of inquiry.
3.Reiterates its total solidarity with the Sudan to counter hostile designs which target its security and national unity.
4.Requests the Secretary General to conduct necessary contacts with the Security Council and the USA Government, or any other organization, in order to implement this resolution, and to submit a report thereon to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON COMBATING THE ILLIGAL PROLIFERATION, BUILD-UP AND CIRCULATION OF LIGHT WEAPONS
The Twenty –Seventh Session of The Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers, (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 24 to 27 Rabiul Awwal 1421 H (27-30 June 2000);
Taking note of the decision of the 35th Session of The Conference of Heads of State and government of the Organization of African Unity, held in Algiers in July 1999, to convene a Ministers’ conference on the illegal trade in, and proliferation of light weapons.
Recalling the objectives and principles set forth in the Charters of the UN and the Organization of the Islamic Conference, particularly the provisions relating to the consolidation of international peace and security;
Recalling further the relevant resolutions on disarmament adopted by the United Nations General Assembly as well as by the various Islamic Conference, in particular Resolution 21/8-P(IS) adopted by the Eighth Islamic Summit and Resolution 22/25-P adopted by the 25th Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers;
Taking note of the United Nations General Assembly Resolution NO. 53/7E of 4 December 1998 on the convening of a conference on the illegal trade in light weapons in 2001;
Reaffirming the need to preserve international peace and security in general and within the Member States of the Islamic Ummah in particular;
Considering that the manufacturing, illegal circulation and build-up of massive quantities of light weapons in the world constitute a threat to national, regional and international peace and security as well as an obstacle to the economic development of the countries and regions concerned;
Convinced of the need for a global approach with a view to encouraging at national, regional and world levels, the limitation and reduction of light weapons in a balanced and non-discriminatory manner;
Deeply concerned about the spread of insecurity, banditry, and terrorism linked to the illegal movement of light weapons;
Taking note of the Secretary General’s Report NO. ICFM/27-2000/PIL/D.37;
1.Notes with satisfaction the initiative taken by the Government of the Republic of Mali on the question, and specifically by the Organization of the ceremony of the “Torch of peace” in Timbuktu on 27 March 1996 and consisting in
the destruction of thousands of light arms of small caliber and by the mobilization of the international community for a resolute and coordinated combat against the illicit traffic kind of this type of armament.
2.Firmly endorses the holding of the African Regional Conference on the illegal trade in, and proliferation of light weapons which will be organized by the OAU in November 2000 in Bamako, Republic of Mali. This Conference will work out a global African approach within the framework of the preparation of the United Nations international Conference of the year 2001.
3.Notes with interest the Moratorium declaration on the import, export and manufacturing of light arms in West Africa adopted in Abuja on 31 October 1998 by the 21st Session of the Conference of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of the West African States (ECOWAS) and calls on Member States of the Islamic Ummah to approve the Moratorium and support its effective implementation.
4.Notes with satisfaction the setting up in many countries of national commissions to combat the proliferation of light arms in the Sahelo-Saharian region and of the UN Standing Consultative Committee on security in Central Africa and calls on Member States of the Islamic Ummah and other Islamic Organisation to set up their own national commissions.
5.Calls on African States in particular and the Member States of the Islamic Ummah in general to initiate and strengthen their cooperation at sub-regional, regional and international levels with a view to eradication the illicit traffic and proliferation of light arms.
6.Notes with satisfaction the initiative taken by the European Union to set up a world wide mechanism to combat and control the illicit accumulation and circulation of light arms and calls on the Secretary General to examine ways and means to ensure an effective cooperation between the Organization of the Islamic Conference, the United Nations, the European Union, the ECOWAS and the other sub-regional organizations concerned with question.
7.Calls on Member States to participate actively in the Conference on Combating the Illegal Trade of light arms, which will be held in the year 2001, and requests the Secretary General to cooperate fully with Member States in order to prepare for this Conference.
8.Requests the Secretary General to further examine the question and to submit a report to the Twenty-eighth Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers on the implementation of this resolution.
ON THE SAFEGUARDING OF THE RIGHTS OF MUSLIM COMMUNITIES AND MINORITIES IN NON-OIC MEMBER STATES
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam & Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 24 to 27 Rabiul Awal 1421H (27-30 June 2000),
Recalling that Muslim communities and minorities living in Non-OIC Member States account for over one third of the Islamic Ummah;
Recalling also the principles and objectives of the OIC Charter, the Resolutions adopted by the Sessions of the Islamic Summit Conferences, the Sessions of Islamic Conferences of Foreign Ministers and international conventions, declarations and agreements, particularly those calling for observance of human rights namely political, social, cultural, economic and religious;
Further recalling UN General Assembly Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief;
Reaffirming its commitment to Muslim communities and minorities living in Non-OIC Member States and expressing its concern at the forms of intolerance towards some of these communities and minorities in particular in the western hemisphere;
Condemning persecution and violations, especially those committed by aggression and occupation forces against Muslim communities and minorities in a number of non-OIC Member States;
Having considered the Report submitted by the Secretary General on the situation of Muslim Communities and minorities (Document No. ICFM/27-2000/MM/D.1),
1.Expresses its satisfaction at the efforts exerted by the Secretary General for the implementation of the resolutions adopted on the Islamic Communities and Minorities in Non-Member States particularly concerning the setting up of a Contact Group among the Member States within the United Nations in New York and Geneva to deal with cases of violation of the rights of Muslim communities and minorities in non-Member States.
2.Emphasizes the need to see to it that the Muslim communities and minorities in non-OIC Member States preserve their religious and cultural identity, and enjoy equal treatment as far as rights, obligations and duties are concerned, and have access to all their civic and religious rights without discrimination or distinction.
3.Reaffirms that preservation of the rights of Muslim communities and minorities in non-OIC Member States is, essentially, the responsibility of the governments of these states, on the basis of abidance by the principles of International Law and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
4.Calls upon Member States and the OIC Subsidiary, Specialized and Affiliated Institutions, including the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) and the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (ISESCO) as well as non-governmental Islamic organisations, bodies and institutions, to provide the OIC General Secretariat, step by step, with available information, studies and statistics on the situation of Muslim communities and minorities in non-OIC Member States so as to establish an advanced data-base which enables the General Secretariat to perform the tasks entrusted to it concerning these Muslim communities and minorities in a manner that satisfies the aims and objectives of the OIC.
5.Invites the OIC General Secretariat to receive representatives of some Muslim Communities and Minorities in non-OIC Member States aimed at closely being informed about the conditions of these Muslim communities and minorities whom they represent; or to get information on Muslim Minorities, Communities and Societies through these representatives, this is to be done within the framework of respect for the sovereignty of the states in which they live in accordance with paragraph 5 of Resolution No. 38/24-P adopted by the Twenty-fourth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
6.Urges Member States to pay special attention to those Muslim communities and minorities in non-OIC Member States who are exposed to persecution or oppression because of their religious beliefs and to know their needs which are to be communicated to the Member States so as to provide the necessary capabilities - material, human and financial. Also to intensify the cultural and educational Islamic activities as well as various humanitarian assistance so as to accord more attention to improving the general conditions of the Muslim communities and minorities in non-OIC Member States in general.
7.Invites Member States to exert further efforts in order to inform, OIC Member States, about the reality of the problems of Muslim communities and minorities in non-OIC Member States.
8.Urges Member States to coordinate efforts for preparing able workers who can perform Islamic Dawah missions among Muslim communities and minorities in various countries of the world. These workers should include also qualified women. A series of integrated educational books on Islam, its rituals and principles should be written. This series should be simplified and in the form of publications or audio-visual material to be translated to the languages of the countries where these Muslim minorities live.
9.Requests the OIC General Secretariat to make contacts with the governments of the states that have Muslim communities and minorities in order to identify their problems and needs and elicit the view of these States on ways to evolve a cooperation formula with the OIC aimed at making the required contributions for improving the conditions of these Muslim communities and minorities and preserving their religious and cultural identity, while giving priority to contacts with governments of non-OIC Member States that have Muslim communities and minorities confronting pressing problems.
10.Urges the OIC Member States to exert efforts with governments of Non-OIC Member States where violations of the rights of Muslim communities and minorities take place so as to urge them to take necessary and immediate measures to stop these violations and restore order.
11.Commends the efforts of the two Contact Groups in New York and Geneva on considering the conditions of the Muslim Minorities and encourages them to deal with cases of violation of the rights of these Muslim minorities and communities in non-Member States. It also urges the Contact Groups to hold meetings at Ministerial level whenever necessary.
12.Hails the OIC Group in Geneva for its efforts and active participation in the deliberations of the Sub-committee for combating intolerance and for the protection of minorities, in defense of the rights of Muslim communities and minorities in non-OIC Member States.
13.Invites the OIC General Secretariat to follow up the UN activities relevant to the minorities issue so as to be informed about developments on the situation of Muslim communities and minorities in non-OIC Member States, and to submit a report thereon to the next meeting of the Group of Experts.
14.Reaffirms the commitment of Member States to respect the rights of non-Muslim communities and minorities living in their territories, in accordance with the sublime teachings of Islam; denounces the allegations of some circles concerning the treatment reserved for these minorities; and their procedures, measures and rules concocted to serve as pretexts to interfere in the internal affairs of member States; and requests the OIC Group of Experts on Minorities to pay special attention to this question.
15.Welcomes the recommendation contained in the report of the Third Meeting of the Inter-Governmental Group of Experts on Following-up the Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam, to coordinate with the Expert Group on Considering the Conditions of Muslim Minorities and Communities in non-OIC Member States with a view to undertaking a comprehensive survey of the conditions of Muslim communities and minorities there, and, at a later stage, to make the necessary arrangements at international fora for preserving their rights.
16.Approves the report and recommendations of the Group of Governmental Experts on Muslim minorities and communities in non-member States of the OIC adopted by its Fifth meeting (document GEMM/5/2000/REP.1/FINAL) and the recommendations contained therein, urges Member States and the General Secretariat to implement them, and invites the Group of Experts on Muslim Communities and Minorities in non OIC-Member States to continue its work on a regular basis.
18.Approves the report and recommendations of the Second Meeting of the Committee of Experts entrusted with setting up a Plan of Action to safeguard the Rights of Muslim Communities and Minorities in Non-OIC Member States held in Sao Paolo, Brazil, from 13 to 15 Muharram, 1421 (17 – 19 April, 2000) and calls on Member States and the General Secretariat to implement them.
18.Requests the Secretary General to prepare a report on the matter and submit it to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON QUESTION OF MUSLIMS IN SOUTHERN PHILIPPINES
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam & Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 24 to 27 Rabiul Awal 1421H (27-30 June 2000),
Bearing in mind the previous resolutions of the OIC and the recommendations of the Ministerial Committee of Six on the question of Muslims in Southern Philippines;
Recalling the Tripoli Agreement signed on 23 December 1976, under the auspices of the OIC, between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro National Liberation Front which the signatory parties agreed to consider as the basis for a political, permanent, just and comprehensive solution to the question of Southern Philippines within the framework of the national sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of the Philippines;
Also recalling that in accordance with the two Memoranda of Understanding with which the Government of the Philippines and the Moro National Liberation Front concluded two rounds of preliminary talks, held in Tripoli, Libyan Arab Jamahiriya on 3-4 October, 1992 and in Cipanas, Western Java, Republic of Indonesia on 14-16 April, 1993, the two parties agreed to conduct official peace negotiations for the full implementation in letter and spirit of the 1976 Tripoli Agreement;
Further recalling the results of the four rounds of formal peace talks held in Jakarta between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro National Liberation Front;
Commending the agreement reached by the participants in the Fourth Round of Formal Peace Talks to reaffirm all the points of agreement in the 1994, 1995 and 1996 Interim Agreements and to include them in the Final Agreement provided for in the 1976 Tripoli Agreement,
1.Welcomes the "Peace Agreement" between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Moro National Liberation Front initialed on 30 August 1996 in Jakarta and officially signed on 2 September 1996 in Manila.
2.Appreciates the important steps already taken to fully implement the Agreement and calls on both the GRP and the MNLF to preserve the gains achieved as a result of the signing of the "Peace Agreement".
3.Pays tribute to the leadership of the Moro National Liberation Front under the Chairmanship of Professor Nur Misuari, as the sole legitimate representative of Muslims in Southern Philippines ("Bangsamoro people"), for their courage, political vision and wisdom which paved the way for the ultimate achievement of a political, just, comprehensive, and final solution to the question of Muslims in Southern Philippines.
4.Pays tribute to the role of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines which led to the establishment of the Southern Philippines Council for Peace and Development and, consequently, to the achievement of the peaceful, durable, comprehensive and just settlement of the problem of Southern Philippines.
5.Pays tribute to the role of the Government of the Republic of Indonesia in facilitating the peace process culminating in the signing of the Final Peace Agreement on 2 September 1996.
6.Also pays tribute to the role of the Government of the Great Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, under the wise leadership of His Excellency Colonel Muammar Qaddafi, in achieving the Tripoli Agreement of 1976 and in hosting the first exploratory talks in Tripoli from 3 to 4 October, 1992.
7.Expresses satisfaction for the efforts exerted by the Ministerial Committee of Six, under the Chairmanship of the Foreign Minister of Indonesia, and the membership of the Libyan Jamahiriya, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Republic of Senegal, People's Republic of Bangladesh and the Republic of Somalia as well as the efforts exerted by the OIC Secretary General, to find a political, just, comprehensive, honourable and final solution to the problem of Muslims in Southern Philippines.
8.Expresses satisfaction for the positive contribution of the OIC Observer Team manned by Indonesian officers in maintaining the ceasefire and thereby creating a conducive atmosphere for the attainment of the Peace Agreement and their role in the implementation phase of the Agreement.
9.Urges the Member States, the OIC subsidiary organs, specialised and affiliated institutions, including the Islamic Development Bank, to increase their economic, financial, technical and material assistance for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Southern Philippines through the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and/or the Southern Philippines Council for Peace and Development (SPCPD) under the leadership of the MNLF.
10.Decides to maintain the status and the participation of the MNLF in the activities of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference in its capacity as the sole legitimate representative of the Bangsamoro people in Southern Philippines aimed at improving their conditions in accordance with the Peace Agreement.
11.Urges the Government of the Republic of Philippines to take the necessary steps for the implementation of the peace agreement so as to ensure an auspicious environment for development and stability in Southern Philippines.
12.Urges the Member States to contribute to mobilizing broad international support to both parties of the Peace Agreement aimed at enabling them to achieve peace, development and prosperity in the Southern Philippines.
13.Requests the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Moro National Liberation front to agree on the extension of Phase I of the Peace Agreement, and consequently to the postponement of the general plebiscite which was scheduled to be held on 2 September 2000, in order to ensure the full implementation of all measures and policies as stipulated in paragraphs 1 and 2 of the Peace Agreement, including the accelerated implementation of development projects and programmes in the Special Zone of Peace and Development (SZOPAD).
14.Appeals to the Government of the Republic of the Philippines to reconsider postponing the date of elections in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) to the Year 2003 in response to the just request of the MNLF and to ensure that the elections are held according to the stipulation contained in paragraph 2, (2a and 2b) of the Peace Agreement, and that the Government of the Republic of the Philippines carries out its international obligations and commitments as stipulated in this Agreement in order to secure the most favourable conditions for development and stability.
15.Urges the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to immediately halt its military hostilities and reach a peaceful resolution to the existing problem in Mindanao.
16.Appeals to all Islamic charitable organiaztions in the OIC member states, as well as others, to extend medical and other humanitarian assistance to the displaced people who are the victims of violence in Mindanao and its islands.
17.Requests the Ministerial Committee of Six and the OIC Secretary General to continue extending assistance as appropriate for the full implementation of the Peace Agreement during the transitional period pending the establishment of the regular autonomous region in Southern Philippines.
18.Requests the Secretary General to follow up the implementation of this resolution and to submit a report thereon to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON THE SITUATION OF TURKISH MUSLIM MINORITY IN WESTERN THRACE
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam & Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 24 to 27 Rabiul Awal 1421H (27-30 June 2000),
Reaffirming its commitment to Muslim communities and minorities living in Non-OIC Member States;
Keeping in mind that the Turkish Muslim Minority in Western Thrace, is an integral part of the Muslim World;
Recalling the principles and objectives of the OIC Charter, the Resolutions adopted by the Sessions of the Islamic Summit Conferences, Islamic Conferences of Foreign Ministers and international conventions, declarations and agreements, calling for observance of human rights namely political, social, cultural, economic rights and freedom of worship, and most particularly the Lausanne Agreement which calls for observance of the right of the Muslim minority in Western Thrace to use their Turkish language and practice their religious rites as well as to the free election of their representatives in all matters;
Further recalling UN General Assembly Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief;
Regretting that the violation of the minority rights and fundamental freedoms of the Turkish Muslim Minority in Western Thrace is continuing;
Keeping in mind that the rights and freedoms of the Turkish Muslim Minority in Western Thrace are defined and protected by multilateral and bilateral Treaties and Agreements,
1. Deplores the juridical harassment aimed at the elected Mufti of Zanthi, Mr. Mehmet Emin Aga and his sentencing to imprisonment.
2.Expresses its concern on the obstruction of the building of Kimmeria Mosque.
3. Requests that the steps for the election of the administration board of the Waqfs are taken to enable a better administration of the Waqfs which will promote the religious and educational activities.
4. Urges Greece to take all measures to restore the rights of the Turkish Muslim Minority in Western Thrace and urgently recognize the elected Muftis of Zanthi and Komotini as the official Muftis.
5. Requests the Secretary General to monitor the situation of the Turkish Muslim Minority in Western Thrace and to report to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON THE MUSLIM MINORITY IN MYANMAR
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam & Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 24 to 27 Rabiul Awal 1421H (27-30 June 2000),
Reaffirming its obligations to the Muslim communities and minorities living in non-OIC Member States;
Recalling the principles and objectives of the OIC Charter, the Resolutions adopted by previous sessions of the Islamic Summit and Foreign Ministers Conferences, and international covenants and conventions, particularly those calling for the respect of political, social, cultural, economic and religious human rights.
Realizing that the Muslim minority in Myanmar constitutes an integral part of the Islamic world;
Deploring the continuing oppression and displacement, suffered by some Muslims in the Union of Myanmar, in addition to their being deprived of the basic rights, which other citizens enjoy.
1.Commissions the Islamic Contact Group entrusted under Resolution No.38/24-P with considering the conditions of Muslim minorities and communities, to follow up the violations of the rights of Muslim minorities in Myanmar and submit an annual report there on to the OIC General Secretariat.
2.Urges Member States to lend moral and political support to the Muslims of Myanmar and to facilitate the steps needed for a dialogue between them and the Government so as to enable them to exercise their basic rights on an equal footing with other citizens in Myanmar.
3.Requests the OIC Secretary General to hold further discussions with the representatives of Muslims in Myanmar and to report on his findings to the Conference.
4.Requests the Secretary General to follow up the situation of the Muslim minority in Myanmar and to submit a report thereon to the Twenty-eight Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON THE INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC COURT OF JUSTICE
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 24 to 27 Rabi Ul Awal 1421H (27-30 June 2000),
Recalling Resolution 13/5-P(IS) of the fifth Session of the Islamic Summit Conference regarding the establishment of the International Islamic Court of Justice as a fourth main organ in the OIC;
Wishing to speed up the establishment of the International Islamic Court of Justice and the commencement of its work so that it may contribute to the peaceful settlement of disputes among Member States;
Mindful of the importance of Resolution No. 26/54-P adopted by the Twenty-sixth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers on the Islamic Court of Justice,
1.Expresses its appreciation to the Member States that have ratified the statute of the Court and the amendment of Article (3) of the Charter involving the addition of a fourth paragraph (d) concerning the International Islamic Court of Justice.
2.Urges the Member States that have not yet ratified the Statute of the Court and the amendment of the Charter to accelerate the completion of the ratification procedure and to deposit their instruments of ratification at the General Secretariat as soon as possible, so that the quorum needed for the Court to become operational may be attained.
3.Calls for continued coordination and consultation between the State of Kuwait, the host country, and the General Secretariat in looking for the best ways and means to accelerate the establishment and functioning of the Court.
4.Invites the Secretary General to continue intensive contacts and consultations with Member States aimed at expediting the attainment of the necessary quorum of ratifications for establishing the Court and ensuring the commencement of its work.
5.Also invites the Member-States and the General Secretariat to make every effort to raise and disseminate awareness of the relevance of the Court, and its objectives and of the need for its establishment and functioning as an optional judiciary means to settle conflicts peacefuly.
6.Requests the Secretary General to follow-up the implementation of this resolution and report thereon to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON THE FOLLOW-UP OF THE CAIRO DECLARATION ON HUMAN RIGHTS IN ISLAM
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 24 to 27 Rabi Ul Awal 1421H (27-30 June 2000),
Recalling the noble motives and objectives of the glorious religion of Islam which emphasizes the need for, and importance of, human rights; and mindful of the universality and comprehensive nature of the Islamic rules on human rights and the prominent place of Man.
Bearing in mind the objectives of the Charter of the OIC of promoting and encouraging respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all people without distinction as to race, sex or religion;
Recalling Resolution No. 49/19-P of the Nineteenth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers adopting and issuing the document entitled Cairo “Declaration on Human Rights in Islam”; and the subsequent resolutions the latest of which was resolution No. 55/26-P of the Twenty-fifth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers on the Follow-up of the Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam;
Recognizing the necessity and urgency of translating the follow up of the Cairo Declaration into concrete and practical measures now that 9 years have elapsed since its adoption;
Aware of the prevailing international circumstances and the necessity of strengthening the existing mechanism within the OIC for exploring ways and means to promote and protect human rights through, inter alia, the formulation of a group of Islamic covenants on human rights;
Recognizing the obligations and endeavors of the Member States to promote and protect the internationally recognized human rights while taking into account the significance of their religious, national and regional particularities and various historical and cultural backgrounds, and with due regard to the “Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam”;
1. Welcomes the unanimous decision of the Nineteenth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers to issue the Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam as a general guideline for Member States in the field of human rights.
2.Recognizes the importance of following up the Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam and calls upon the Governmental Expert Group, in accordance with its mandate and pursuant to the principles enshrined in the Cairo Declaration, to start the formulation and consideration of Islamic charters on human rights which
shall take the form of covenants, each of which shall deal with one or several issues in detail based on the provisions of the Declaration, and to be considered in special meetings in preparation for recommending their submission to the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
3. Encourages Member States to support and facilitate the realization of the mandate of the Governmental Expert Group through, inter alia, convening, in Member States and Non-Member States and in collaboration with the General Secretariat, seminars and workshops on human rights in Islam.
4. Calls upon Member States to continue their active coordination and cooperation in the field of human rights in order to strengthen Islamic solidarity against any initiative that may lead to the use of human rights as a means of political pressure on any Member State.
5. Takes note of the report of the Sixth Meeting of the Governmental Expert Group on the follow up of the Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam and approves recommendations made therein; and requests the Secretary General to hold the symposium referred to in recommendation No. 6 as soon as possible.
6.Requests the General Secretariat to include this item in the agenda of the future sessions of the OIC; and also requests the Secretary General to submit a report on the implementation of the present resolution to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON COORDINATION AMONG MEMBER STATES IN THE FIELD OF HUMAN RIGHTS
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 24 to 27 Rabi Ul Awal 1421H (27-30 June 2000),
Bearing in mind the objectives of the Charter of the OIC and the Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam, of promoting, encouraging and ensuring respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all in accordance with Islamic values and teachings, as well as the Charter of the United Nations, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other relevant instruments;
Mindful of the universality and integral nature of Islamic values with respect to human rights, the prominent place of man in Islam as vicegerent of Allah on earth and hence the great importance attached by Islamic thought to the promotion, encouragement and respect of human rights;
Noting the attempts to exploit the issue of human rights to discredit the principles of Islamic Shariah and to interfere in the affairs of Islamic States;
Stressing the need for active international cooperation for the effective realization of the right to development;
Emphasizing the need for close coordination among Member States in resisting the moves to exploit human rights for political purposes including selective targeting of individual countries for unavowed motives,
1. Reiterates the need for continued consultation and coordination among Member States in the field of human rights especially during international Conferences and meetings on the subject.
2. Requests the Secretary General to provide ways and means to convey OIC stands on different issues in the field of human rights specially in respect of minorities, to the UN Human Rights agencies and mechanisms, in particular their Special Representatives and Rapporteurs with a view to furthering OIC positions on human rights at the U.N.
3. Also requests the Secretary General to follow-up the mission of the Contact Group with the relevant international organizations, in particular, at the U.N. headquarters in New York and Geneva, with the mandate of holding meetings on appropriate occasions, to consider and discuss human rights issues with a view to adopting, if possible, a common position among Member States on the matters under consideration.
4. Calls for the necessary vigilance and caution towards any attempts at misrepresenting and discrediting the Islamic Shariah.
5.Requests the Secretary General to follow up implementation of this resolution and report thereon to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON CAMPAIGNS WAGED BY CERTAIN NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS (NGOs) AGAINST A NUMBER OF OIC MEMBER STATES TARGETTING THE ISLAMIC SHARIA UNDER THE SLOGANS OF PROTECTING HUMAN RIGHTS
The twenty-seventh Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 24-27 Rabi’ul Awal, 1421H (27-30 June, 2000),
Recalling resolution no. 49/19-P of the 19th ICFM on adopting and ratifying a document titled “The Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam,” aimed at fostering, promoting and respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, proceeding from the values and tenets of Islam, the charters of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) and the United Nations (U.N.) as well as the Universal Declaration on Human Rights and other relvant documents;
Recalling also of the OIC decisions on follow-up of the “Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam,” coordination among member states in the field of human rights, and drafting Islamic covenants on human rights;
Referring to the two resolutions No. 82/1999 and 84/2000 of the Human Rights Commission in Geneva, at its 55th and 56th sessions regarding the ways and means to deal with the distortion of the image of religions;
Affirming that discrimination against human beings on account of their religion or creed is an insult to the dignity of the humankind;
Stressing the importance of creating the propitious circumstances conducive to better harmony and more tolerance within various societies and among them; aware of the importance of education for ensuring tolerance and respect of religion and creed;
Expressing its appreciation, in this concern, of the joint efforts exerted by the OIC member states, the U.N. High Commission on Human Rights which organized a symposium under the theme “Enriching the universality of human rights: The Universal Declaration on Human Rights From an Islamic Perspective,” in Geneva, November 9-10, 1998;
1.Expresses its deep concern over the frequent and erroneous association of Islam with violations of human rights and the misuse of the media --- press and audio-visual – in propagating such wrong notions.
2.Urges for a halt of the unjustified campaigns launched by some NGOs against a number of member states, focusing on the demand to abolish the Shari’a ordained punishments and other penalties under the “protection of human rights” slogan.
3.Reaffirms the right of states to hold on to their religious, social and cultural specificities which constitute a legacies and streams of thought that contribute towards enriching the common international conceptions of human rights.
4.Reasserts that the right of societies to abide by their own characteristics and noble values that distinguish them does not mean cultural alievations or encapsulations, no more than it is a pretext to renege on their international commitments.
5.Recalls anew the states’ right to reserve, where necessary, the right to express reservations on the international conventions, covenants and agreements they subscribe to, as part of their sovereign rights.
6.Calls for the necessity to consider human rights in their global concept and from all their religious, political, social, economic and cultural facets within the framework of international cooperation and solidarity.
7.Also calls as well for abstaining from using the universality of human rights as a pretext to interfere in the states’ internal affairs and impair their national sovereignty.
8.Emphasizes the necessity for the international community to address with the human right issue objectively and comprehensively, as far as all states are concerned, without selectivity or discrimination.
9.Exhorts all states to take all appropriate measures, in the context of their national legislations and consistent with the international human right acts, to promote understanding, tolerance and respect in matters connected with freedom of religion or creed.
10.Calls on of the OIC Group in Geneva to see to it that the reports of the U.N. rapporteurs dealing with human rights take into consideration the provisions of the present resolution when submitting such reports to the coming sessions of the U.N. Human Rights Commission.
11.Requests the Secretary General to follow up the implementation of this resolution and submit a report thereon to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON THE STATUS OF SIGNATURE AND RATIFICATION OF THE AGREEMENTS CONCLUDED UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE OIC.
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 24 to 27 Rabi Ul Awal 1421H (27-30 June 2000),
Having considered the status of signature, ratification, and accession to the Agreements concluded under the auspices of the Organization of the Islamic Conference;
Noting that the necessary quorum of ratifications by Member States for the coming into force of many of these Agreements is not yet reached in accordance with the provisions of their Statutes; and the importance of expediting this process for strengthening the role of the OIC and expanding the fields of cooperation among Member States;
1. Urges the Member States to sign and/or ratify, as soon as possible, the various agreements concluded in the framework of the Organization of the Islamic Conference.
2. Requests the Secretary General to follow up the implementation of this resolution and submit a report thereon to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON THE CONVENING OF AN INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE U.N. TO DEFINE TERRORISM AND DISTINGUISH IT FROM PEOPLES' STRUGGLE FOR NATIONAL LIBERATION.
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 24 to 27 Rabi Ul Awal 1421H (27-30 June 2000),
Committed to the moral and human principles that the OIC Member States believe in, and inspired by their sublime and tolerant religion; their heritage and tradition which call for the rejection of all forms of injustice, aggression and intolerance;
Convinced that there is an international consensus on combating terrorism in all its forms; and on eliminating the causes of terrorism which endangers the life and property of innocent people, violates the sovereignty of States, and jeopardizes the rights of peoples;
Recognizing the need for specific and agreed upon international criteria, to enable the international community to differentiate clearly between terrorism and peoples’ struggle for national liberation;
Stressing the need for Islamic cooperation in taking practical measures to combat and prevent terrorism effectively within the framework of the provisions of the Code of Conduct for combatting international terrorism, approved by the Seventh Session of the Islamic Summit Conference in its Resolution 43/7-P (IS), and the OIC Convention On Combating International Terrorism, approved by the 26th Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers as per its resolution No. 59/26-P;
Reaffirming the fundamental and legitimate rights of all peoples struggling under the yoke of colonialist and racist regimes as well as under foreign occupation to fight occupation and determine their own future, particularly the struggle of national liberation movements;
Condemning all terrorist acts, including those perpetrated by States, directly or indirectly, which spread violence and terror and aim at destabilizing countries and communities;
Denouncing the rabid attempts aimed at obliterating the clear distinction between terrorism and the legitimate struggle of peoples which conforms with the principles of international law and the provisions of the Charters of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference and the United nations;
Noting the categorization adopted by some quarters on the basis of biased political considerations according to which a number of Islamic States are listed among the so called states which sponsor terrorism;
Recalling U.N. General Assembly Resolution 1514 (1960) on granting the right of self-determination and independence to colonised countries and peoples, and U.N. General Assembly Resolution 42/104, adopted on 7 December 1987;
Also recalling Resolution No. 53/8-P(IS) adopted by the Eighth Session of the Islamic Summit and the Resolution No. 58/26-P adopted by the Twenty-sixth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers;
1. Reiterates its support for convening an International Conference under the auspices of the United Nations to define terrorism and distinguish it from the struggle of peoples for national liberation.
2. Invites Member States to stress the need for convening an International Conference to determine the meaning of terrorism, and to distinguish terrorism from the struggle of peoples for national liberation.
3.Requests the Secretary General to ensure the implementation of this resolution and submit a report thereon to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON THE OIC CONVENTION FOR COMBATING INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 24 to 27 Rabi Ul Awal 1421H (27-30 June 2000),
Welcoming the approval by the 26th ICFM of the OIC Convention on Combating International Terrorism;
Recalling Resolution 43/7-P(IS) of the Seventh Session of the Islamic Summit Conference, which approved the Code of Conduct for Combating International Terrorism and Resolution 54/8-P (IS) of the Eighth Session of the Islamic Summit Conference on the Follow-up of the Code of Conduct For Combating International Terrorism;
Also recalling the U.N. Resolution No. 60/49 relating to the Declaration of principles on the fight against international terrorism;
Reaffirming the determination to combat terrorist acts in all their forms and manifestations, including those where States are involved directly or indirectly;
Reiterating the commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, to eliminate the objectives and causes of terrorism directed against the life and property of innocent people and the sovereignty, territorial integrity, stability and security of States, and to uphold the provisions of the OIC Convention on Combatting International Terrorism, which reaffirm this commitment;
Emphasizing the importance of international and regional cooperation, especially among Member States, including coordination and exchange of informaion among their competent authorities in combating effectively all forms of terrorism;
Reiterating its call to Member States to observe the principles of good neighbourliness and non-interference in the internal affairs of States and to prevent the use of their territories by individuals or groups for the perpetration of territorist acts against other Member States;
Emphasizing the importance of establishing a climate of confidence and solidarity among Member States;
Alarmed at the continuing acts of violence and the increasing level of attendant atrocities specially those targeting foreign tourists recently;
Strongly condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations including state terrorism against all States and peoples;
Having considered the report of the Secretary General of the OIC on the OIC Convention on Combating International Terrorism (Document No. (ICFM/27-2000/LEG/D-4B);
1.Declares that Islam is innocent of all forms of terrorism which involve the murder of innocent people whose killing is forbidden by Allah.
2. Strongly condemns the perpetrators of such odious crimes, who pretend to act in the name of Islam or under any other pretext.
3. Calls upon all states not to grant asylum to these terrorists, and to take all necessary measures to help bring them to justice.
4. Affirms the determination of Member States to concert their efforts to combat all forms and manifestations of terrorism, including state terrorism against all states and peoples.
5. Reaffirms that the struggle of peoples under colonialist or alien domination or under foreign occupation, for their national liberation or to regain their right to self-determination, does not constitute an act of terrorism.
6. Takes note with satisfaction of the approval of the Twenty-sixth Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers of the OIC Convention on Combatting International Terrorism and calls upon Member States to take appropriate steps to sign and ratify it.
7. Calls upon Member States to follow-up the OIC Convention on Combating International Terrorism, and to coordinate their stands and cooperate in the light of the principles and provisions stipulated in the Convention within all the international conferences and fora concerned with terrorism and international terrorism.
8.Reaffirms the commitment of Member States to the provisions of the OIC Convention on Combating International Terrorism especially those reaffirming their commitment to refrain from undertaking, attempting or participating in any way in financing, instigating or supporting any acts of terrorism, directly or indirectly and also those committing them to take all necessary measures to ensure that their territories are not used as a base for planning, organizing, executing, initiating or participating in any terrorist activity.
9.Calls upon OIC Member States to make every effort to enhance their cooperation, in accordance with their internal laws and relevant international arrangements and conventions, in countering and combating terrorist acts, prosecuting their perpetrators or handing them over to their respective countries or to the state where the act had been committed, in accordance with their bilateral agreements and arrangements as well as cooperation in the fields of exchange of relevant information on terrorists and their activities.
10.Calls upon the Member States to extend their support to the initiative of the Republic of Uzbekistan for the establishment of the International Centre on Combating Terrorism under the auspices of the United Nations.
11. Requests the Secretary General to follow-up the implementation of this resolution in close cooperation with the Member States, and to submit a report thereon to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON THE STRENGTHENING OF ISLAMIC SOLIDARITY IN COMBATING HIJACKING
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 24 to 27 Rabi Ul Awal 1421H (27-30 June 2000),
Recalling the Resolutions adopted by the different Sessions of the Islamic Summit and Foreign Ministers Conferences, the latest of which is the resolution No. 60/26-P adopted by the Twenty-sixth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers;
Taking into consideration that the hijacking of aircraft and the anguish caused to innocent passengers is a crime as grave as highway robbery which is prohibited by the Islamic Shariah in accordance with the text of the Holy Quran (Surat Al-Maida/33);
Noting that the crimes of hijacking aircraft have continued in spite of all international agreements and conventions prohibiting them and calling for more severe sanctions against hijacking;
Affirming that acts of violence against innocent passengers in addition to the dread, terror and suffering caused to them and to their relatives and their exposure to unjustified physical and mental torture are contrary to the provisions of Islamic Shariah;
Having considered the report of the Secretary General on the strengthening of Islamic solidarity in combating hijacking;
Conscious of the need for full observance of the international conventions against hijacking;
1.Condemns all forms of international terrorism including the crime of aerial hijacking and unlawful acts against the safety and security of civil aviation.
2. Calls on Member States to refrain from yielding to the demands of hijackers, which constitute a form of extortion contrary to the interests and laws of the peoples and countries of the OIC.
3.Calls upon Member States to take all necessary measures to curb such crimes and inflict the most severe punishments on the offenders involved in them, or to hand them over to the other States concerned.
4. Calls upon Member States which have not yet acceded to or ratified, the Tokyo Convention (1963), the Hague Convention (1970) and the Montreal Convention (1971) on penalties for hijacking and guarantees for the security and safety of civil aviation, to expedite such ratification and accession and urges the States that have already acceded to these Conventions to strictly and firmly implement their provisions.
5.Calls upon all Member States on whose territories hijacked planes land to exert utmost efforts to foil the designs of the hijackers in accordance with international laws in this regard and, in cooperation with the country owning the aircraft in accordance with the relevant international agreements.
6.Requests the Member States facing such situations to provide necessary assistance to the passengers, crew members, aircraft and countries owning them in accordance with the provisions of international agreements.
7.Requests also the Secretary General to follow up the implementation of this resolution and to submit a report thereon to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON CRITERIA FOR MEMBERSHIP OF THE OIC
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 24 to 27 Rabi Ul Awal 1421 H (27-30 June 2000),
Recalling operative paragraph No. 6 of Resolution No.1/24-AF calling for the setting up of an intergovernmental expert group to consider Standards for Obtaining full membership of the OIC;
Taking Note, with appreciation, the Report of the Second Meeting held by the above Group contained in Document No. OICMS/2-99/REP.1/FINAL and the recommendations reached by the Group as well as the draft Rules of Procedures for Full Membership (Annex: 1/POICM/2-99/POFM/FINAL);
Approves
Requests
RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR OBTAINING FULL MEMEBRSHIP OF THE ORGANIZATION OF THE ISLAMIC CONFERENCE (OIC)
These Rules of Procedure are promulgated in implementation of the Provisions of the Article 8 of the OIC Charter and Resolution No. 1/25-ORG of the 25th Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (ICFM).
Article One
The Applicant State shall submit a written request to the Secretary General declaring its wish to obtain full membership of the Organization and its determination to abide by the objectives, principles and commitments of the OIC Charter.
Article Two
The Applicant State shall submit the request, at least (90) days before the convening of the ordinary session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (ICFM), enclosing a statement which shall include the following:
1.Whether the constitution of the State stipulates that Islam is its official religion;
2.The extent to which the Islamic Sharia is applied by the State or considered a source of legislation;
3.The ratio of Muslims to the total population of the State, and the ratio of Muslims to followers of all other creeds in the State.
4.Information on the situation of Muslim communities under its jurisdiction, the legislations in force and their conformity with the enjoyment of their rights on an equal footing with other communities in the State.
Article Three
The General Secretariat shall inform the member states about the request (30) days from the date of receiving it and shall give its view on the matter.
Article Four
The request is submitted to the ordinary session of the ICFM to take the appropriate decision thereon, and in case the (90) day period stipulated in Article Two is not observed, the request shall be submitted to the subsequent ordinary session of the ICFM.
Article Five
The Applicant State may exercise OIC membership rights on the day in which the Instruments of its Ratification of the Charter have been deposited with the General Secretariat.
Article Six
The provisions of these Rules of Procedure enter into force immediately after their approval by the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON GRANTING THE “OBSERVER” STATUS TO THE PARLIAMENTARY UNION OF THE OIC MEMBER STATES
The Twenty-seventh the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 24 to 27 Rabi Ul Awal 1421 H (27-30 June 2000),
Recalling the principles and objectives enshrined in the OIC Charter;
Recalling also Resolution No. 2/7-ORG (IS) of the Seventh Session of the Islamic Summit Conference (Session of Brotherhood and Renaissance) held in Casablanca, Kingdom of Morocco from 11 to 13 Rajab 1415H (13-15 December 1994);
Having taken note of the report of the Secretary General contained in Document No. ICFM/27-2000/LEG/D.7 on the request of the Parliamentary Union of the OIC Member States to be granted the “observer status”;
Bearing in mind new changes taking place in the international arena and their repercussions on the live of nations and human societies, particularly in the Islamic world;
Taking into consideration the organic bond among PUOICM States;
Reaffirming the basic principles contained in Resolution No.2/7-ORG;
Welcomes
Calls upon
Requests
Decides
Requests
ON OIC INPUTS TO THE WORLD CONFERENCE AGAINST RACISM, RACIAL DISCRIMINATION, XENOPHOBIA AND RALATED INTOLERANCE
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 24-27 Rabiul Awal, 1421H (June 27-30, 2000);
Recalling also the principles and objectives of the OIC Charter, the Resolutions adopted by the Sessions of the Islamic Summit Conferences, the Sessions of Islamic Conferences of Foreign Ministers and international conventions, declarations and agreements, particularly those calling for observance of human rights namely political, social, cultural, economic rights and religious freedoms;
Further recalling the Commission on Human Rights' resolutions 1999/82 of 30 April 1999 and 2000/84 of 26 April 2000 especially its operative paragraph 5 which "invites Governments, intergovernmental and regional organizations to provide their views on the religious perspectives of combating racism to the Secretary General of the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance and invites her to present these inputs to the World Conference through its preparatory process;
1.Condems persecution and violations, especially those committed by aggression and occupation forces against Muslim communities and minorities in a number of non-OIC Member States.
2.Reaffirms the decision of the Member States of the OIC to provide an input for inclusion in the final outcome of the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance, on the Islamic perspectives of combating Racism, Defamation of Islam and Islamophobia.
3.Decides to entrust the OIC Working Group on Human Rights in Geneva to formulate this input, taking into account documents and views provided by member States, and to forward it to the Secretary General of the World Conference by 15 August 2000.
4.Requests, in this context, the Secretary General of OIC to prepare a report as an input to the OIC preparations for the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance.
ON DEFAMATION OF ISLAM
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 24-27 Rabiul Awal, 1421H (June 27-30, 2000),
Recalling also the principles and objectives of the OIC Charter, the Resolutions adopted by the Sessions of the Islamic Summit Conferences, the Sessions of Islamic Conferences of Foreign Ministers and international conventions, declarations and agreements, particularly those calling for observance of human rights namely political, social, cultural, economic rights and religious freedoms;
Further recalling the Commission on Human Rights' resolutions 1999/82 of 30 April 1999 and 2000/84 of 26 April 2000 entitled defamation of religions which expressed deep concern at the negative stereotyping of religions, expressed deep concern that Islam is frequently and wrongly associated with human rights violations and with terrorism, and expressed concern at any role in which the print, audio-visual or electronic media or any other means is used to incite violence, xenophobia or related intolerance and discrimination towards Islam and other religions;
1.Endorses the efforts of the Member States of the OIC in Geneva to highlight the concerns of the Islamic Countries regarding the defamation of Islam and taking common positions on issue of direct interest to them in the UN human rights bodies.
2.Commends the initiative by OIC Member States in Geneva to oppose the "defamation of Islam" as reflected in the Commission on Human Rights' resolution on "Defamation of religions" and encourages them to continue this initiative.
3.Requests the Secretary General of the OIC to follow up the development on this issue and present a report thereon to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON THE ROLE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION IN PROMOTING THE JUST CAUSES AND IMAGE OF ISLAM
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 24 to 27 Rabi Ul Awal 1421H (27-30 June 2000),
Recalling Resolutions No. 45/7-P(IS) and No. 57/8-P (IS) on COMIAC adopted by the Seventh and Eighth Sessions of the Islamic Summit Conferences respectively and approving the recommendations of the Committee during its Third and Fourth Sessions;
Recalling also resolution No. 62/26-P adopted by the 26th Session of the ICFM on the Role of Information and Communication in Promoting the Just Causes of Islam, held in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso from 15 to 18 Rabie Awal 1420H (28 June to Ist July 1999);
Considering the resolutions of the 5th Session of the Islamic Conference of Information Ministers held in Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran on 23-24 Shaban 1420H (1-2 December 1999);
Having taken cognizance of the report of the Secretary General on the role of information and communication in promoting the just causes and image of Islam (ICFM/27-2000/INF/D.1);
Expressing its thanks to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran for hosting the Fifth Session of the Islamic Conference of Information Ministers;
1.Commends the measures proposed by the Secretary General to activate the sector of information and communication so that it may play its effective role in promoting the just Islamic causes and the image of Islam.
2.Follows with interest the efforts to launch the Islamic Programme for Development of Information and Communication (PIDIC), whose supervisory committee will meet during the second half of 2000 in Tehran, and the contacts of the Secretary General with the member States and international organizations concerned in this respect (UNESCO in particular).
3. Requests the member States to draw on the principles of the Information Strategy of Islamic States in their national information programmes and plans, and that their media should further highlight this strategy (vide booklet on reference documents of joint Islamic action in the fields of information and communication).
4.Commends the progress towards establishing a website for the General Secrtariat in the Internet which will allow better information about it and its institutions and the meaning of joint Islamic action and programmes in Toile Cybernetique.
5.Requests the Secretary General to follow up the implementation of this resolution and make a report thereon to the Sixth Session of the Islamic Conference of Information Ministers and to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON THE INFORMATION PLAN AND PROBLEMS OF FINANCING
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globaliation) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 24 to 27 Rabi Ul Awal 1421H (27-30 June 2000),
Recalling resolutions 56/7-P(IS) and 58/8-P (IS) of the Seventh and Eighth Sessions of the Islamic Summits and resolutions 46/22-P, 47/23-P, 48/24-P, 58/25-P, 62/26-P of the 22nd, 23rd, 24th, 25th and 26th Sessions of the ICFM on OIC Information Plan;
Also recalling the recommendations of the Fifth Session of COMIAC held in Dakar on 8-9 Dhul Quida 1417H (27-28 March 1996) on financing and implementing the Information Plan;
Further recalling the commitments made by member States in the framework of their cooperation to establish an appropriate communication network aimed at reducing the imbalance in the flow of information in the Islamic world, on the one hand, and a specific information system to assert their national and cultural identities and combat hostile campaigns directed at Islam and Muslims, on the other;
Inspired by the resolutions of the 5th Session of the Islamic Conference of Information Ministers held in Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran, on 23-24 Sha’ban 1420H (1-2 December, 1999);
Recalling the request made by the 8th Session of the Islamic Summit Conference to the Secretary General to make direct contacts with the member states for information about the programmes included in the Information Plan whose cost they could bear and to coordinate action with the member states with a view to mobilizing the donations and voluntary contributions required for the implementation of the entire Information Plan;
Having considered the Secretary General’s Report on the role of communication in promoting the just causes and the image of Islam as well as his Report on implementing the Action Programme for 1999/2000 within the framework of the Information Plan (ICFM/27-2000/INF/D.2);
1.Reaffirms the need for member States’ strong support to, and effective participation in, the implementation of the Information Plan to ensure its success.
2.Urges member States to:
pledge financial, technical and material contr4ibutions to implement this Plan.
Implement the annual programme derived from the Information Plan (Doc. FC/WG-MSPI/PAL).
3.Requests member States:
(a)To assume, individually or collectively, the execution of some parts of the Information Plan;
(b)To contribute financially to the activities of the OIC in the field of information and communication, notably by settling their arrears of contributions to the budget of the General Secretariat and making voluntary contributions so as to make up for the delay in implementing the Information Plan and provide for the financing of other parts of the Plan.
4.Requests the Secretary General to follow up the implementation of this resolution and submit a report thereon to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON THE INFORMATION STRATEGY AND ITS IMPLEMENTATION MECHANISMS
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 24 to 27 Rabi Ul Awal 1421H (27-30 June 2000),
Referring to the general conception of the Islamic Information Strategy adopted by the First Islamic Conference of Information Ministers, held in Jeddah, in 1988;
Recalling resolutions No. 3/3-ICIM and No. 13/3-ICIM of the Third Session of the Islamic Conference of Information Ministers on the Islamic Information Strategy and its Implementation Mechanisms;
Referring to resolutions No. 1/5 and 2/5 of the Fifth Session of the Standing Committee For Informationand Cultural Affairs (COMIAC), on 27-28 March 1996, which adopted the Islamic Information Strategy and its implementation mechanism;
Referring also to resolutions No. 1/4-ICIM and 1/5-ICIM adopted successively by the 4th and 5th Sessions of the Islamic Conference of Information Ministers, held successively in Dakar, Senegal, and Tehran on the Information Strategy and its Implementation Mechanisms;
Having taken cognizance of the report of the Secretary General on the Information Stragtegy for Islamic States and Updating its Implementation Mechanisms (ICFM/27-2000/INF/D.3);
1.Reinvites the member states to take the necessary procedures aimed at including the Islamic Information Strategy in their information policies.
2.Appeals to the member states to extend human, material and technological assistance to the two information institutions involved in Islamic information, namely the International Islamic News Agency (IINA), and the Islamic States Broadcasting Organization (ISBO), to enable them to achieve their strategic objectives.
3.Reinvites the member states to distribute the Stratgegy pamphlets among their various respective mass media.
4.Requests the Secretary General to follow-up the implementation of this reoslution and submit a report thereon to the Twenty-eighth session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
ON THE INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC NEWS AGENCY (IINA)
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 24 to 27 Rabi Ul Awal 1421H (27-30 June 2000),
Having considered the report of the Secretary General on the role of communication in promoting the just causes of Islam and image of Islam, as well as his Background Report on the OIC institutions specialized in the field of information and also the report submitted by the Islamic International News Agency (IINA) on its activities and projects;
Noting with satisfaction the decision of the 5th Session of COMIAC to maintain IINA and ISBO as two separate institutions working in the field of information;
Having taken note of the resolutions of the 5th Session of the Islamic Conferene of Information Ministers, held in Tehran from 28 November to 2 December 1999;
Having noted the efforts being made by the Agency to expand and diversify its activities through publication of books and bulletins on current events in the Islamic world, as well as reports and surveys on member States and regularly projecting them through the Internet, through its website No. (WWW. ISLAMICNEWS. ORG), despite the financial, technical and press difficulties it is confronting;
Expressing deep concern over the failure of some member States to settle their contributions to the Agency’s budget;
1.Expresses its thanks and appreciation to the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the constant support extended to the Agency, as well as to the member States which have contributed human, moral and material assistance to the Agency, thereby enabling it to pursue its activities in the field of information.
2.Calls on Member States to pay their subscriptions and settle their arrears of contributions to the Agency’s budget so that the Agency can fulfill its responsibilities, specially carrying the action programme specified for them in resolution No. 3/5-ICIM and No. 11/5-ICIM adopted by the 5th Session of the Islamic Conference of Information Ministers.
3.Urges Member States to extend support to the Agency by providing it with editorial and technical staff so that it may achieve its objectives in the service of
Islamic information and also to provide IINA with news reports and information on Islamic activities and development programmes as well as to pursue enriching its daily bulletins on the Internet, and to assist the Agency in advancing its daily bulletins on the Internet as well as to direct national agencies and national radio and television networks to propagate the news reports of IINA.
4.Calls upon the Director General of IINA to follow-up the implementation of this reoslution and submit a report thereon to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers in coordination of the General Secretariat of the OIC.
ON THE ISLAMIC STATES BROADCASTING ORGANISATION (ISBO)
The Twenty-seventh Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (Session of Islam and Globalization) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 24 to 27 Rabi Ul Awal 1421H (27-30 June 2000),
Having taken cognizance of the report of the Secretary General on the role of communication in promoting the just causes and image of Islam as well as his Background Report on the OIC institutions specialized in the field of information and also the report of the Secretary General of the Islamic States Broadcasting Organisation on its activities, projects, plan of actions and programmes;
Noting with satisfaction the decision of the Fifth Session of COMIAC to maintain IINA and ISBO as two separate institutions working in the field of information;
Noting also with satisfaction the progress made by ISBO in Dawa activities, promoting the propagation of the Arabic language and defending Islamic causes;
Having taken note of the resolutions of the 5th Session of the Islamic Conference of Information Ministers, held in Tehran from 28 November to 2 December 1999;
Expressing concern at the accumulated arrears of contributions of many member States to the Organisation’s budget;
1.Expresses deep gratitude and appreciation to member States which have paid their contributions and continue supporting ISBO activities, both materially and morally, particularly the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Arab Republic of Egypt.
2.Calls on member States concerned to regularly settle their full contributions to the Organisation’s annual budget and arrange for the early settlement of their arrears so that the Organisation can implement its programmes and projects normally as well as the action programme specified in resolution No.3/5-ICIM and No. 4/5-ICIM adopted by the 5th Session of Islamic Conference of Information Ministers.
3.Welcomes the holding of the first session of the Islamic Meeting of Producers at television institutions of the member states, scheduled to be held in Tehran in September 2000.
4.Calls on the Secretary General of ISBO to follow-up the implementation of this resolution and submit a report thereon to the Twenty-eighth Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers in coodination with the OIC General Secretariat.