In a recent conversation with NHS Media, Barrister Hamid Bashani shed light on several pressing topics, including the expansion of BRICS, the irrelevance of the OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation), and the reasons behind the Muslim world’s absence from significant space exploration initiatives.
Key Points
- The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has historically centred on religious unity within the Muslim world. However, its lack of economic and political relevance and its focus on religious ideology has hindered its effectiveness as a global organization.
- Recent events, such as the lack of unified support on critical issues like Kashmir, have contributed to the decreasing relevance of the OIC and highlighted shifts in alliances and priorities among Muslim-majority nations.
- There is a need for the Muslim world to strike a balance between religious beliefs and scientific exploration. Clinging exclusively to religious beliefs could hinder progress, and Muslims should embrace scientific advancements while respecting their faith.
- The intertwining of religion and politics can lead to complexities and challenges for nations. The impact of this interplay can be seen in Pakistan’s policies, which have been influenced by the intersection of religious beliefs and political goals, sometimes resulting in confusion and conflicting priorities.
According to Dr. Bishani, the OIC’s historical and economic relevance has been questionable. Unlike other global economic blocs that are built on political and economic ideologies, the OIC has predominantly focused on religious unity within the Muslim world. Throughout its existence, it has maintained a clear focus on the Ummah, but its impact has been limited. From its inception, the OIC targeted Israel and India, evident in its anti-Israel stance. The organization has shifted shapes over time, even acting as a tool for larger global powers during the Cold War. However, the OIC’s relevance has waned, especially in the last decade, due to the Muslim world’s shifting dynamics and its lack of unity on critical issues like Kashmir.
Discussing the expansion of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa), Dr Bishani pointed out Pakistan’s absence from the group despite its close alliance with China. He questioned whether Pakistan’s perceived isolation, borne out of its unique foreign policy perspective, was a positive development. China’s failure to advocate for Pakistan’s inclusion in BRICS raised questions about the depth of their alliance. This new direction could indicate China’s realization that association with Pakistan might be more of a liability than an asset.
Dr. Bishani also delved into the Muslim world’s perspective on space exploration. He challenged the notion that religion should dictate a country’s participation in scientific endeavours. Drawing attention to India’s moon landing, he highlighted how no nation identifies itself as a religious entity on the moon. Dr. Bishani emphasized the need for Muslims to move beyond exclusive religious beliefs and embrace scientific exploration. He argued that the dichotomy between Islam and science should not hinder progress and development.
Barrister Hamid Bashani’s insights shed light on the complex interplay between religion, politics, and global dynamics. The OIC’s dwindling relevance, Pakistan’s exclusion from BRICS, and the Muslim world’s approach to space exploration all reflect the multifaceted challenges that nations face in the modern era. Understanding these dynamics becomes crucial in shaping a progressive and inclusive global future as societies continue to evolve.