Arab League
Candlefocus EditorThe League is governed by its charter, a 20-article agreement that lays out the principles, purposes, and membership of the League. Articles 1-10 deal with the League’s general objectives and structure, articles 11-19 discuss the powers and duties of its members, and article 20 discusses theAmendments to the charter. In addition to the charter, there are three annexes which deal with economic, social, and military matters.
The member states of the League have raised their collective voice in the international arena to influence decision-making related to the Arab world. This has helped to preserve the Arab identity in the region and to foster closer economic, political, and cultural ties among the people. It has also enabled Arab countries to engage in collective action on matters of common concern, such as the Arab-Israeli conflict and the peace process, or to effectively address the COVID-19 pandemic.
The League is also a key platform for deliberations among its members, often resulting in resolutions and joint policies that shape the region. It also has its own educational and cultural initiatives, such as the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT), which is dedicated to promoting science and technology in Arab countries. In addition, the League has also sponsored several conferences and forums that have sought to bring together governments and business leaders to discuss economic cooperation and development amongst Arab nations.
In addition to its 22 member countries, the League also has four observer nations: Brazil, Eritrea, India and Venezuela. The four observers are able to participate in the decisions and debates of the League and join its bodies, although they are not allowed to submit resolutions or vote.
As a regional organization dedicated to the advancement of the Arab world, the Arab League is a major political, economic and cultural force in the Middle East and North Africa. Its original mission of promoting economic trade, growth and political stability remains, and it is an instrumental player in helping to create an atmosphere of peace, security and stability within the region.