ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is set to host the 9th Ministerial Conference on Women of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on July 12–13 in Islamabad, bringing together ministers, senior officials, and representatives from OIC member states to discuss strategies for promoting women’s empowerment across the Muslim world.
Held under the theme “Socio-Economic and Political Empowerment of Women in the OIC Countries: Challenges and Way Forward,” the two-day conference will focus on strengthening cooperation among member states and identifying practical solutions to improve women’s participation in economic, social, and political life.
Delegations from OIC member countries have already begun arriving in the federal capital ahead of the conference.
Delegations Receive Warm Welcome in Islamabad
Visiting delegates were welcomed at Islamabad International Airport by Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik, Parliamentary Secretary for Human Rights Saba Sadiq, Parliamentary Secretary for Law and Justice Farah Naz Akbar, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Human Rights, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other government departments.
The reception reflects Pakistan’s role as the host nation and its commitment to ensuring the successful conduct of the ministerial meeting.
Pakistan to Chair the Conference
During the conference, Federal Minister for Law, Justice and Human Rights Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar will officially assume the chairmanship of the 9th OIC Ministerial Conference on Women on behalf of Pakistan.
As chair, Pakistan will lead the conference proceedings and work closely with fellow OIC member states to encourage dialogue, build consensus, and strengthen collective efforts aimed at improving the status of women across the Islamic world.
The conference is expected to produce recommendations that will help member countries address common challenges while promoting inclusive development and greater opportunities for women.
Warm welcome to all delegates arriving for the 9th OIC Ministerial Conference on Women in Islamabad. We wish you productive discussions & a memorable stay in Islamabad. pic.twitter.com/LpkSKrhHrq
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) July 11, 2026
Focus on Women’s Empowerment
Over the course of the two-day event, ministers responsible for women and family affairs, senior government officials, representatives of OIC institutions, international organisations, and development partners will review progress made by member states in advancing women’s rights and participation.
Participants will exchange experiences, share successful policy initiatives and best practices, and discuss ways to enhance women’s access to education, employment, leadership positions, entrepreneurship, healthcare, and decision-making processes.
The discussions will also explore practical measures to strengthen women’s socio-economic and political inclusion while addressing obstacles that continue to limit their full participation in many OIC countries.
Importance of the OIC Conference
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is the world’s second-largest intergovernmental organisation after the United Nations, representing 57 member states across four continents. The Ministerial Conference on Women serves as one of the OIC’s key platforms for promoting cooperation on issues related to women’s development, family welfare, and gender-inclusive policies.
By hosting the conference, Pakistan aims to reinforce its engagement with the OIC and contribute to regional and international efforts focused on women’s empowerment, sustainable development, and social progress.
Pakistan Reaffirms Commitment
The Government of Pakistan said it is honoured to host the important ministerial gathering, describing it as a reflection of the country’s commitment to the objectives of the OIC and to strengthening cooperation among member states.
Officials expressed hope that the conference would provide a valuable opportunity for constructive dialogue and meaningful collaboration, while extending a warm welcome to all participating delegations and wishing them a productive conference and a pleasant stay in Islamabad.
