The Muslim World League
The Muslim World League (MWL) is an independent international organization comprising members from various Islamic countries and sects. Headquartered in Makkah, its mission is to clarify the true image of Islam and foster friendship among peoples.
Establishment:
The MWL was established by a resolution issued by the General Islamic Conference held in Makkah on May 18, 1962 (corresponding to 14 Dhu al-Hijjah 1381 AH).
The MWL Serves as a Member in:
- United Nations (UN): The MWL serves as an observer member in the Economic and Social Council, among international non-governmental organizations holding consultative status.
- Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC): The MWL serves as an observer, participating in summit conferences, meetings of foreign ministers, and all other conferences convened by the organization.
- United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO): The MWL serves as a member.
- United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF): The MWL serves as a member.
Its Charter:
We, the members of the Muslim World League, representing the MWL with faith and conviction, pledge to Almighty Allah to:
- Call upon all nations to work toward achieving the happiness and welfare of humanity, ensuring social justice for all, and fostering the best possible human society.
- Bear witness before Allah that we do not seek to harm or interfere in the affairs of others, nor do we desire to dominate or exert control over anyone.
- Strive to unify Muslims and eliminate the causes of division within Islamic societies across the world.
- Promote and encourage all forms of benevolence.
- Declare that Islam does not endorse populism or racism.
- Unite our efforts to achieve these goals in a constructive and principled manner.
- Utilize all available spiritual, material, and moral means to fulfill the aspirations outlined in this charter.
The MWL’s Objectives and Methods of Implementation:
The MWL pursues its goals through means that fully comply with Islamic law, including the following:
- Introduce Islam and its tolerant values as presented in the Holy Qur’an and the Sunnah.
- Consolidate the principles of centrism and moderation within the consciousness of the Muslim Ummah.
- Address and resolve issues facing the Muslim Ummah and prevent factors that cause conflict and discord.
- Emphasize civilizational rapprochement and promote a culture of dialogue.
- Address the concerns of Muslim minorities and resolve their issues in accordance with the constitutions and legal frameworks of the countries in which they reside.
- Utilize the Hajj season as an opportunity to facilitate meetings among scholars, intellectuals, and organizational leaders to provide scientific and practical solutions for raising the standards of Muslims worldwide.
- Preserve the Islamic identity of the Ummah, strengthen its global standing, and enhance its unity.
Financial Management:
The Muslim World League relies on its endowments for financial management.
Investments derived from these endowments constitute a major source of funding for the organization.
The General Secretariat:
The General Secretariat of the Muslim World League serves as the executive arm of the organization. It oversees the day-to-day operations of the League and implements the policies and resolutions adopted by the Supreme Council. This is carried out under the leadership of the Secretary-General, with the support of assistant secretaries and the general administrative staff.
Headquarters:
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Makkah, Al-Aqaba District
P.O. Box 537
Tel: +966-12-5309444
Fax: +966-12-5601319 / +966-12-5601267
Gandhi Praised Caliphs Abu Bakar and Umar as Role Models in His 1937 Newspaper
In the July 27, 1937 issue of his weekly journal Harijan, Mahatma Gandhi praised Islamic Caliphs Abu Bakar (RA) and Umar Farooq (RA) as examples of humble and responsible leadership.
In a rare reference to Islamic history, Mahatma Gandhi praised Caliphs Abu Bakar and Umar Farooq as examples of simple and honest leadership.
He made this statement in the July 27, 1937 issue of his weekly journal, Harijan, offering advice to Indian National Congress leaders as they began to hold public office.
In that issue of Harijan, Gandhi wrote:
“I cannot give you the reference of Ram Chandar or Krishna, because they were not considered as historical figures. I cannot help it but to present to you the names of (Hazrat) Abu Bakar (RA) and (Hazrat) Umar Farooq (RA). They were leaders of a vast Empire, yet they lived a life of austerity.” Harijan – Dated: 27.07.1937
This statement came during an important moment in India’s history. In 1937, the Indian National Congress formed governments in several provinces for the first time under British rule, following elections held under the Government of India Act, 1935.
Gandhi, always cautious about the moral health of leaders, urged Congress members not to be consumed by power or luxury. He used the examples of Caliphs Abu Bakar and Umar Farooq to remind them that true leaders live simply and serve the people.
Harijan was Gandhi’s weekly newspaper, launched in 1933 to support his social reform campaigns — especially against untouchability. The journal regularly featured Gandhi’s views on religion, politics, and ethics.
The journal was published in English, along with versions in Hindi (Harijan Sewak) and Gujarati (Harijanbandhu), and ran until 1955.
This was not the only time Gandhi showed appreciation for Islamic values. He often quoted the Quran, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and his companions in speeches and writings.
