OIC Commemorates World Humanitarian Day With Regional And International Partners In Jeddah

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) commemorated World Humanitarian Day in Jeddah, gathering both regional and international partners to strengthen joint efforts in crisis management and humanitarian aid. Key participants included the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and Türkiye’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD).

OIC Secretary-General Hissein Ibrahim Taha highlighted the organization's dedication to values of compassion and solidarity, which are deeply rooted in Islam. He explained that establishing the Humanitarian Affairs Department within the OIC was intended to enhance coordination, address crises effectively, and uphold human dignity. "Humanitarian action is a shared responsibility," he stated, emphasizing that global cooperation can save lives and create a fairer future for people in the Islamic world and beyond.

In a recorded message, Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Rabeeah, Advisor at the Royal Court and Supervisor General of KSrelief, discussed the increasing scale of global humanitarian challenges. He pointed out that by April 2025, over 122 million people had been displaced or become refugees worldwide. "Humanitarian action has become a necessity, not an option," he declared, reaffirming Saudi Arabia's commitment to providing relief to affected communities globally.

Dr. Al Rabeeah noted that Saudi Arabia has contributed more than $141 billion in humanitarian and development aid worldwide. Of this amount, approximately $124 billion has been directed towards OIC member states, with Gaza receiving priority support. He confirmed that Gaza would continue to be a focal point in Saudi Arabia's humanitarian efforts.

The event underscored the importance of international collaboration in addressing humanitarian needs. By bringing together various organizations dedicated to relief efforts, it aimed to reinforce collective actions that can lead to meaningful change for those affected by crises.

The gathering served as a platform for discussing strategies to tackle ongoing humanitarian issues while promoting unity among nations committed to aiding those in need. The emphasis on shared responsibility highlights how coordinated efforts can significantly impact improving lives across different regions.

With inputs from SPA