Flag of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation

The flag of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is a symbol of unity and solidarity for the world's Muslim communities. Adopted as the visual identity of a major international organization, the flag represents the shared spiritual and cultural heritage of its member states. It conveys the organization's mission to promote peace, dialogue, and cooperation among Muslim nations and with the wider world.

Design and Symbolism

The flag of the OIC is a white rectangular banner. In its center is the organization's emblem, which consists of a green globe surrounded by a crescent of the same color. In the center of this globe, on a white background, the Kaaba is depicted. The elements of the emblem reflect the corporate philosophy of the organization in accordance with its new charter.

• White Background: The white color of the background symbolizes peace, purity, and goodwill. It serves as a neutral and dignified backdrop for the central emblem, emphasizing the peaceful intentions of the organization.

• Green Crescent and Globe: The color green is a traditional symbol in Islam, representing peace, life, nature, and hope. The crescent is a well-known symbol of the Islamic world, and on the OIC flag, it signifies the solidarity and unity of the Islamic Ummah (community). The globe, in turn, symbolizes the global nature of the organization.

• Depiction of the Kaaba: The Kaaba, the holiest site in Islam, is located at the center of the emblem. It is a central point of worship and pilgrimage for Muslims worldwide, and its presence in the emblem directly links the organization to the spiritual heart of Islam.

Dimensions and Proportions

The OIC flag is typically displayed with proportions of 2:3, which aligns with international standards. The emblem in the center is carefully scaled to be a focal point, ensuring clarity when the flag is flown.

History of Creation and Adoption

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation was founded in 1969 following the arson attack on the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. This event spurred Muslim leaders to form a collective body to protect Islamic holy sites and interests. Initially known as the Organization of the Islamic Conference, the name was officially changed to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in 2011. At the same time, a new flag was approved to give the organization a more modern and distinct identity. The new emblem and flag marked a strategic shift towards greater cooperation on social, economic, and political issues, moving beyond a purely reactive stance.

Countries and Regions

The OIC is the world’s second-largest inter-governmental organization after the United Nations, with 57 member states spread across four continents: Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America. Its membership includes countries from the Arab world, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa. This vast and geographically diverse membership represents a significant portion of the global population, highlighting the organization's broad influence.

Interesting Facts

• The OIC is headquartered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, reflecting the country's central role in the Islamic world as the home of Mecca and Medina.

• The OIC flag is often seen at international forums and diplomatic events, symbolizing the collective voice of its member states on global issues.

• The change of the organization's name and flag in 2011 was part of a larger reform process aimed at making the OIC a more effective and relevant player in international relations.

• The emblem, which depicts a globe, symbolizes the global reach and international nature of the cooperation that the organization seeks to foster.

In the demonstration images, full-size flags are shown with proportions of 2:3, and hand-held flags with proportions of 1:2.