A forum on the International Day of Human Fraternity took place on 4 February at the headquarters of the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States in an initiative by the United Arab Emirates in collaboration with the General Secretariat’s Social Affairs Sector and the Department of Culture and Dialogue of Civilisations. The Global Council for Tolerance and Peace also played a key role in organising the forum, marking the celebration of the International Day of Human Fraternity, observed annually on 4 February.
The United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution designating 4 February each year as the International Day of Human Fraternity.
The International Day of Human Fraternity serves as a platform to underscore the principles and values articulated in the Document on Human Fraternity. It also remains dedicated to advancing the exploration of optimal practices that can contribute to the realisation of a more peaceful global landscape. This significant day is marked by the international community in commemoration of the historic moment when His Eminence, the Grand Imam Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Sheikh of Al-Azhar, and His Holiness Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church, came together to sign the Human Fraternity document on 4 February 2019 in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This symbolic act reflects a shared commitment to unity and cooperation among diverse communities on a global scale.
The forum saw the participation of member states of the League of Arab States alongside several esteemed religious leaders and representatives from civil society. Dr. Salama Dawoud, President of Al-Azhar University, and the Rev. Paul Ava Mina led the discussions, joined by representatives from numerous civil organisations, former ambassadors, and notable public figures.
The League of Arab States devotes considerable attention to the dialogue between civilisations, cultures, and religions. It consistently advocates for the establishment of communication bridges and interaction among followers of diverse civilisations, emphasising the importance of preventing clashes or confrontations. The League aims to highlight the shared values and commonalities among different civilisations to create spaces for mutual understanding while combating negative phenomena like extremism and fanaticism in all their manifestations.
Additionally, the League addresses the challenge of contempt for religions and messengers. It underscores the necessity of fostering dialogue as the primary means to solidify a culture of peace and achieve harmonious coexistence among peoples. The League stands firm against hatred, misunderstanding, and the distortion of diverse cultures and civilisations. In this role, the League of Arab States plays a crucial part in formulating a well-balanced approach to intercultural dialogue, interfaith coexistence, and the alliance of civilisations.
Central to its approach is the promotion of mutual respect, justice, and fairness, while actively rejecting hatred, intolerance, and racial discrimination. By advocating these principles, the League endeavours to contribute to the establishment of a global environment characterised by peaceful coexistence and the rejection of animosity and misrepresentation among different cultures and civilisations.
