ISLAMABAD — Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has reviewed the final preparations for the upcoming 9th OIC Ministerial Conference on Women, scheduled to take place in Islamabad from July 12 to 13, 2026. The conference aims to enhance cooperation among the 57 member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in promoting women’s empowerment, inclusion, and sustainable development.
What Happened
The Deputy Prime Minister, Ishaq Dar, convened a high-level meeting to examine the logistical and strategic arrangements for the OIC Ministerial Conference on Women. The meeting, held at the Prime Minister’s Secretariat, was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Women Development, and other relevant departments. Dar emphasized the importance of the event, highlighting its role in fostering international cooperation on critical issues related to women’s rights and development.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on various aspects of the conference, including security protocols, accommodation arrangements for international delegates, and the agenda for the sessions. Dar stated, “The conference represents a significant opportunity for member states to collaborate on strategies that promote gender equality and empower women across the Muslim world.”
The conference will feature a series of panels and workshops focusing on key themes such as economic empowerment, education, health, and political participation of women. It will also provide a platform for sharing best practices and successful models from different countries, aimed at addressing common challenges faced by women in OIC member states.
Background
The OIC Ministerial Conference on Women is a biennial event that brings together ministers and high-level representatives from member states to discuss and formulate policies for advancing women’s rights and development. The OIC, established in 1969, is the second-largest intergovernmental organization after the United Nations, comprising 57 member states spread over four continents.
Pakistan has been an active participant in OIC initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. The country has hosted several OIC events in the past, reflecting its commitment to addressing gender disparities and enhancing the role of women in society. The upcoming conference is part of a broader effort by the OIC to implement its Action Plan for the Advancement of Women, which was adopted in 2008.
Why It Matters
The conference is of significant importance for Pakistan and the broader Muslim world. It underscores the commitment of OIC member states to address gender inequality and promote women’s rights, which are crucial for sustainable development and social progress. By hosting the event, Pakistan is positioning itself as a leader in advocating for women’s empowerment within the Islamic world.
Economically, empowering women can lead to substantial benefits for member states. According to the World Bank, increasing women’s participation in the workforce can significantly boost economic growth. For Pakistan, where women constitute nearly half of the population, enhancing their economic participation is vital for achieving national development goals.
Socially, the conference provides an opportunity to address cultural and societal barriers that hinder women’s full participation in various spheres of life. By sharing experiences and best practices, member states can learn from each other and implement effective strategies to overcome these challenges.
Politically, the event reinforces the OIC’s role as a platform for dialogue and cooperation among Muslim countries. It highlights the organization’s commitment to addressing global issues through collective action, thereby enhancing its credibility and influence on the international stage.
Key Takeaways
- The 9th OIC Ministerial Conference on Women will be held in Islamabad on July 12-13, 2026.
- Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar reviewed final preparations, emphasizing international cooperation on women’s empowerment.
- The conference will address key themes such as economic empowerment, education, and health for women.
- Pakistan’s hosting of the event underscores its commitment to gender equality and women’s rights.
- The conference aims to enhance the OIC’s role in promoting sustainable development and social progress.
Source Attribution
This article is based on official government statements, press releases, and public communications from relevant authorities.
