Celebrating the International Day for South-South Cooperation

September 12, 2024

Aligned with the United Nations, we observe September 12, the world the International Day for South-South Cooperation, a day dedicated to recognizing and promoting the collaborative efforts among developing countries to achieve common goals and address shared challenges. According to UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the Global South broadly comprises Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia (excluding three countries), and Oceania (excluding two ones). Based on this definition, while it can be subject to debate- Islamic countries, though with varying levels of economic and social development, are generally categorized as part of the Global South.

This day is a powerful reminder of the importance of mutual assistance and solidarity, values deeply embedded in our religious and cultural traditions.

The Quranic Foundation for Cooperation

In the Islamic tradition, cooperation and mutual support are fundamental principles that are reflected in the teachings of the Quran. The Quran emphasizes the importance of working together for the common good, and several verses highlight this core value, including:

• “Do not cooperate in sin and aggression. But cooperate in righteousness and piety. And fear God; indeed, God is severe in punishment” (5:2). This verse underscores that cooperation should be grounded in righteousness and piety, guiding us to work together for positive and just causes.

• “The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear God that you may receive mercy” (49:10). This verse calls for reconciliation and the fostering of brotherhood, highlighting the significance of unity and mutual support among believers.

• “And those who strive for Us – We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, God is with the doers of good” (29:69). This verse assures that those who engage in efforts for the betterment of others will receive divine guidance and support, reinforcing the importance of collaborative endeavors in the pursuit of good.

Hadith from the Holy Prophet and Imams (pbut)

The teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh&hp) and the Imams from the Shia tradition further illuminate the value of cooperation and mutual assistance. Their sayings emphasize that working together for the common good is not just a moral obligation but a path to spiritual and communal advancement:

Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh&hp): “O people! Indeed, your Lord is one, and your father is one. All of you are from Adam, and Adam is from dust. ‘Indeed, the most honorable of you in the sight of God is the most pious among you. There is no superiority for an Arab over a non-Arab except by piety” (Al-Harrani, Tuhaf al-Uqul, p. 34). This saying illustrates human equality and fairness, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or social status, and shows that piety is the primary criterion for superiority. This forms a strong basis for cooperation and empathy among human beings.

Imam Ali (p): “He who does not have for others does not have for himself” (Nahj al-Balagha, Sermon 130). This profound statement by Imam Ali (p) highlights the reciprocal nature of support and the importance of extending help to others as a reflection of one’s own values and needs.

Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (p): “Help your brother, whether he is an oppressor or an oppressed one. If he is an oppressor, prevent him from oppression; and if he is oppressed, support him” (al-Kafi, Volume 2, Hadith 21). This hadith underscores the principle of standing up for justice and assisting others in both their moments of need and their moments of wrongdoings.

South-South Cooperation: A Shared Responsibility

The International Day for South-South Cooperation aligns closely with these Islamic teachings. It emphasizes that developing nations, by collaborating with one another, can leverage their collective strengths to overcome common challenges and achieve sustainable development. This cooperation is not only a practical necessity but also a moral imperative, reflecting the values of solidarity and mutual assistance found in Islamic teachings.

By fostering partnerships and sharing resources, knowledge, and experiences, countries in the Global South can address issues such as poverty, education, and healthcare more effectively. This spirit of collaboration resonates with the Quranic principles of cooperation in righteousness and the hadiths that advocate for mutual support and collective well-being.

As we commemorate the International Day for South-South Cooperation, let us remember the teachings of the Quran and the hadith that guide us toward a more just and compassionate world. This day serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to work together, support one another, and strive for the common good. In doing so, we embody the true spirit of cooperation and contribute to a brighter, more equitable future for all.

May our efforts be guided by the principles of righteousness and solidarity, and may we continue to find strength and inspiration in our shared values as we work towards a better world for all.