The Arab League is a union of Arabic-speaking countries in Africa and Asia. It was formed in Cairo in 1945 to promote the independence, sovereignty, affairs, and interests of its member countries and observers. Beginning with seven founding members, it now comprises 22 nations and four observer states. Governed by a charter and a council, the League works to ensure that its goals are met.
Key Takeaways
- The Arab League is a regional organization of Arabic-speaking countries in the Middle East and North Africa.
- Established in 1945, the League is headquartered in Cairo.
- Its mission is to promote trade, economic growth, sovereignty, and political stability in the region.
- The League consists of 22 member states and four observer nations.
- Members adhere to a charter that includes 20 articles and three annexes.
Understanding the Arab League
The Arab League is made up of 22 nations across the Middle East and Northern Africa, many part of the MENA region. Officially known as the League of Arab States, it focuses on the economic and political development of its member states along with conflict resolution.
Member Nations of the Arab League
| Member Nations | Joined In |
|---|---|
| Egypt* | 1945 |
| Iraq* | 1945 |
| Jordan (formerly Transjordan)* | 1945 |
| Lebanon* | 1945 |
| Saudi Arabia* | 1945 |
| Syria* | 1945 |
| Yemen* | 1945 |
| Libya | 1953 |
| Sudan | 1956 |
| Morocco | 1958 |
| Tunisia | 1958 |
| Kuwait | 1961 |
| Algeria | 1962 |
| Bahrain | 1971 |
| Qatar | 1971 |
| Oman | 1971 |
| United Arab Emirates | 1971 |
| Mauritania | 1973 |
| Somalia | 1974 |
| Palestine | 1976 |
| Djibouti | 1977 |
| Comoros | 1993 |
Founding member state
Observer Nations:
- Brazil
- Eritrea
- India
- Venezuela
The Arab League countries vary in population, wealth, GDP, and literacy. Dominated by Muslim, Arabic-speaking nations, Egypt and Saudi Arabia are considered influential players. Agreements for joint defense, economic cooperation, and free trade aid in coordinating government and cultural programs to limit conflict.
History of the Arab League
The League was formed in 1945 after seven founding members signed the Alexandria Protocol in Cairo the previous year. Initially focused on freeing Arab countries from colonial rule, it has faced various shifts over time.
Originally headquartered in Cairo, the League moved to Tunis in 1979 after Egypt signed a peace treaty with Israel. Reestablishing ties with Egypt in 1987, the headquarters moved back to Cairo in 1989.
During the Arab Spring of 2011, the League acted unanimously to revoke memberships and supported UN actions against Libya’s Gaddafi. The League condemned the Islamic State in 2014, with several members launching airstrikes against the militant group.
The Arab League Charter
The charter, established on March 22, 1945, is known as the Pact of the League of Arab States, signed by the leaders of the seven founding member states. It consists of 20 articles outlining the goals, governance, headquarters, and dispute resolution processes, as well as annexes on Palestine, cooperation with non-member Arab countries, and the Secretary-General’s appointment.
The Arab League Council
The Council is the Arab League’s highest body, composed of representatives typically foreign ministers or permanent delegates. Each member state has one vote. The Council meets twice a year with special sessions possible. The general secretariat manages the daily operations, headed by the Secretary-General.
Arab League Member Conflicts
Internal divisions have hampered the League’s effectiveness, notably during the Cold War and rivalry in leadership. Hostilities and political changes within member states have caused significant rifts. Non-unanimous resolutions limit their effectiveness, often becoming declarations rather than policies.
Purpose of the Arab League
The League seeks close cooperation among members on matters like economics, communication, culture, nationality, social welfare, and health. Its mission, as per the founding Pact, is to draw member states closer, coordinate political activities, safeguard independence and sovereignty, and consider Arab countries’ affairs and interests.
Leadership of the Arab League
The Arab League is headed by the Secretary-General. As of March 2024, Ahmed Aboul Gheit has held the position since 2016.
Current Status of the Arab League
While the Arab League still exists, there are signs of waning enthusiasm, reflected in skipped summits and declined positions. Scholars criticize its internal paralysis and ineffectiveness, with some arguing whether it should continue.
Turkey and the Arab League
Turkey has been denied observer status due to opposition from Iraq and Syria and Turkey’s military interventions in the region.
The Arab League: Military and Cooperation
Though not a military alliance, founding members agreed to cooperate in military affairs. A joint military force was proposed in 2007 and 2015 summits.
Conclusion
The Arab League aims to strengthen ties and political-economic development among Arabic-speaking nations in the Middle East and North Africa. Despite criticism and challenges, it remains a significant regional organization striving for unity and cooperation.
Related Terms: United Nations, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, MENA Region, Economic Cooperation, Political Stability.
References
- Museum with No Frontiers. “About the League of Arab States | Member States”.
- Arab.org. “League of Arab States”.
- Nationsonline.org. “Arab League”.
- Council on Foreign Relations. “The Arab League”.
- League of Arab States. “Secretary-General News”.
- Anti-Defamation League. “Arab Economic Boycott”.
- Yale Law School Lillian Goldman Law Library. “Pact of the League of Arab States, March 22, 1945”.
- International Center for Not-for-Profit Law. “League of Arab States”.
- Majalla. “Ahmed Aboul Gheit”.
- The Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies. “It’s Time to Close the Arab League”.
- Aljazeera. “Q&A: What Ever Happened to the Arab League?”
- BBC News. “Arab League Agrees to Create Joint Military Force”.
