Independent Commission for Human Rights: Justice is a prerequisite for peaceful coexistence

Coinciding with the global celebration of the International Day of Peaceful Coexistence, observed annually on May 16, the Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) issued an important statement reaffirming its unwavering commitment to promoting the values ​​of peace and dialogue among civilizations. This statement comes at a time when the world is facing escalating geopolitical and humanitarian challenges, underscoring the exceptional importance of international and Islamic calls to consolidate the principles of peaceful coexistence.

International context and a call for comprehensive peace

The organization affirmed in its statement that the celebration of this day is based on the fundamental principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the Charter of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, as well as the Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam. It explained that the concept of true peace transcends the mere absence of armed conflict or military disputes; rather, it is a dynamic and participatory process that requires the consolidation of the values ​​of justice and equality, and the guarantee that all people enjoy their fundamental rights without discrimination. This day, designated by the United Nations General Assembly, serves as an opportunity to remind the international community of the necessity of solidarity and collective action to build a world of tolerance and understanding.

Human diversity from an Islamic perspective

In establishing its foundations for human rights principles, the Commission noted that the tolerant Islamic faith is replete with values ​​that promote mercy, justice, and the preservation of human dignity. It emphasized that Islam views human diversity and differences in languages ​​and colors as a sign from God and an embodiment of the principle of "unity within diversity." The Commission called for the rejection of all forms of discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or language, affirming that peaceful coexistence can only be achieved by respecting this cultural and religious diversity and considering it a source of human enrichment, not a cause of division.

The situation in Gaza: a test of the world's credibility

Regarding current events, the Commission linked the principles of peaceful coexistence to the painful reality faced by the Palestinian people. It expressed its deep concern and condemnation of the ongoing grave human rights violations in the Gaza Strip, noting that the humanitarian suffering there represents a stark challenge to the global conscience. The Commission reaffirmed its unwavering support for the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, clarifying that talk of peace remains incomplete in the absence of justice.

Towards a sustainable and just peace

The Commission concluded its statement with a forward-looking vision for the future of international relations, emphasizing that sustainable peace can only be achieved through activating accountability mechanisms and ending impunity. It stressed that a just and lasting peace in the region requires the full realization of the Palestinian people's right to self-determination in accordance with international law. The Commission issued a clear call to the international community to adopt a constructive dialogue approach instead of division, and to work diligently to uphold shared human values ​​in accordance with international and regional human rights obligations.