UAE Promotes Global Peace and Interfaith Dialogue at Prague Ministerial Conference
Sheikh Al-Mahfoudh bin Bayyah outlines UAE's commitment to conflict prevention and human dignity.
1Prague Ministerial Conference Participation
The UAE participated in the high-level ministerial conference of the International Religious Freedom or Belief Alliance (IRFBA) in Prague. Held under the theme 'Working Together in a Divided World,' the event gathered government officials, religious leaders, and international organizations to address global challenges regarding religious freedom and social cohesion.
2UAE's Model of Coexistence
Sheikh Al-Mahfoudh bin Bayyah highlighted the UAE as a model for tolerance, noting it hosts nearly 200 nationalities. He argued that diversity becomes a source of strength when grounded in mutual respect and the rule of law, emphasizing that investing in social stability is essential for the future of generations.
3Redefining Peace Initiatives
The UAE's vision for peace extends beyond the absence of conflict to include building trust and ensuring justice. Sheikh Al-Mahfoudh bin Bayyah stated that the Abu Dhabi Forum for Peace is shifting from theoretical dialogue to proactive conflict prevention, aiming to fortify societies against divisions before they escalate into violence.
4Strategic Partnerships for Impact
During the conference, the call was made for strategic partnerships between governments, religious leaders, and civil society. Sheikh Al-Mahfoudh bin Bayyah stressed that the success of these collaborations should not be measured by the number of conferences held, but by their tangible impact on people's lives and regional security.
5Upcoming Values Summit 2027
Abu Dhabi is preparing to host the 'Values Summit' in December 2027 in collaboration with 'Religions for Peace.' The event expects over 1,000 participants, including global leaders and representatives from international institutions, to engage in five days of workshops aimed at creating a roadmap for sustainable human values and partnerships.
6Focus on Africa and Middle East
The Abu Dhabi Forum for Peace expressed its readiness to expand its international contributions, specifically targeting Africa and the Middle East. These initiatives focus on preventing conflicts and fostering understanding between diverse populations, building on the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan regarding human service and global stability.
7The IRFBA Context
The International Religious Freedom or Belief Alliance, also known as the Article 18 Alliance, was established in 2020. It currently includes 38 member countries, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Czech Republic, all committed to combating religious discrimination based on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
8Collective Will for Future
Concluding the conference, the UAE representative emphasized that the global challenge is not a lack of shared values, but a need for collective action. He argued that peace depends on working together on non-negotiable principles like human dignity and the sanctity of life, regardless of cultural or religious differences.