The 9th Session of the OIC Ministerial Conference on Women, themed "Social, Economic and Political Empowerment of Women in OIC Member States: Challenges and the Way Forward," was held on July 12–13, 2026, in Islamabad, Pakistan.

 

Among the key agenda items was the election of new members to the Women’s Advisory Council. Mrs. Narjes Abolqasemi, Deputy for Strategic Studies at the Vice Presidency for Women and Family Affairs, was unanimously elected to represent the Islamic Republic of Iran from the Asian Group.

 

This term, Iran, Turkey, and Malaysia joined the Council from the Asian Group. It should be noted that the Council serves as an advisory body to the OIC Ministerial Conference on Women, guiding future policies, promoting women's empowerment, and upholding their rights. It includes three countries, each from the Arab, Asian, and African groups.

 

Iran’s election underscores its active and effective participation in international initiatives related to women's affairs in the Muslim world.