A conference hosted by Turkey brings together ministers from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to discuss women's role in the development of Muslim countries.

The sixth convention will be held in Istanbul from Nov. 1-3 and along with ministers and high-ranking officials from 56 OIC members states, it will host names like Yemeni activist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Tawakkol Karman and academics specializing in women's rights. The panel "Status of Women in the OIC Member States in Light of Current Challenges" will be held during the meeting.

Ministers will also discuss obstacles to the OIC Plan of Action for the Advancement of Women (OPAAW) and will adopt a declaration at the end of the conference. OPAAW, adopted in 2008, calls upon member states to take action to improve the state of women in education, health, political participation, economic sustainability, social justice and wellbeing and work-life balance.

Participants will present measures to combat violence against women and gender inequality as well as efforts to curb the economic, social and psychological impact on the lives of women and girls in troubled areas and conflict zones. The conference will also discuss Turkey's proposal for establishment of a supreme advisory women's council.

The OIC ministers will also review the contribution of Muslim women to "waqf" and charity work throughout Islamic history, and the establishment of an observatory to correct the image of women in the media, according to a statement on the OIC's website.