The Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum (ICYF) has selected Marrakech, Morocco’s red city, as the “capital” of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for 2025. The ICYF Executive Board, acting as the Selection Committee, announced the decision at its headquarters in Istanbul, last week.
The main purpose of the OIC Youth Capital International Program is to provide a year-long stage for Member States to foster cooperation in the field of youth policy, as well as to enhance Muslim youth solidarity, inter-cultural diversity, and the spirit of “unity” of youth from the OIC geography through various types of activities.
OIC Representatives from diverse OIC member states, including Arab, African, and Asian groups, emphasized the historical significance and international prestige of choosing Marrakech in this selection process.
Mohammed Ouziane, Head of Directorate of Cooperation, Communication and Legal Studies at the Communication Ministry, representing Morocco, played a pivotal role in securing the prestigious title for Marrakech.
The ICYF Executive Board previously selected Shusha, Azerbaijan, as the OIC Youth Capital for 2024. These selections reflect the strategic efforts of the OIC and ICYF to promote cultural exchange and youth engagement across different member-states.
Established in 1969, the OIC is an international organization comprising 57 member-states. Headquartered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the OIC addresses common challenges, promotes economic, social, and cultural development, and safeguards the collective interests of the Muslim world.