Jeddah, March 15, 2025 – On the occasion of Orphan’s Day in the Islamic World, observed on the 15th of Ramadan, Hissein Brahim Taha, the Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), delivered a powerful statement underscoring the critical need for sustained and enhanced efforts to provide comprehensive care and support for orphans. His remarks came as a reminder of the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by orphaned children, particularly in regions affected by conflict, disaster, and climate change.
In his address, Taha emphasized the urgent need for the global community to step up its commitment to the well-being of orphans, especially those living in disaster-stricken areas, conflict zones, and regions impacted by the severe effects of climate change. These crises have displaced millions of children, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation, neglect, and a lack of essential resources. Taha’s call to action urged governments, societies, and humanitarian organizations to bolster efforts to protect and provide for these children, ensuring they have access to basic rights and services, including education, healthcare, and shelter.
The OIC Secretary-General reiterated that the OIC remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting millions of orphaned and vulnerable children across member states. He highlighted the OIC’s role in advocating for improved support systems, such as orphanages, foster care, adoption services, and other child welfare initiatives, to ensure that these children receive not only immediate relief but also long-term care and opportunities for a better future.
Taha also underscored the deep-rooted teachings of Islam, which place immense emphasis on the care and protection of orphans. Citing the Quran and Sunnah, he reminded listeners of Islam's firm commitment to the dignity, well-being, and rights of orphaned children. These religious principles call for providing orphans with proper upbringing, education, healthcare, and social support, ensuring they grow up in an environment that nurtures their physical, emotional, and spiritual development.
In addition to his remarks on the importance of comprehensive care, Taha stressed the role of communities and institutions in facilitating sustainable solutions for orphan care. He called on governments to implement policies that protect orphans and provide them with opportunities to thrive, urging collective efforts to build robust systems for their care and inclusion in society.
Orphan’s Day in the Islamic World, which was first established following a resolution adopted during the 40th session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers in Conakry, Republic of Guinea, in December 2013, serves as an annual reminder of the importance of raising awareness about the issues and needs of orphans. It is a day dedicated to reflecting on the vulnerability of orphaned children, particularly in regions plagued by adversity, and galvanizing efforts to improve their living conditions.
As the world faces unprecedented challenges, from humanitarian crises to environmental disasters, Taha’s message calls for a unified, compassionate response that ensures the protection and well-being of orphans remains a priority for all nations and institutions. Orphan’s Day serves not only as a reminder of the plight of these children but also as a call for action to ensure their rights and dignity are upheld in the face of adversity.