As the 6th Forum of the Global Network of Religions for Children (GNRC) convenes in Abu Dhabi, KAICIID reaffirms its dedication to fostering global partnerships that champion children’s rights and interfaith dialogue. Themed “The Child is Calling”, this year’s Forum brings together faith leaders, policymakers, and child advocates from around the globe to address the challenges faced by children and chart a collaborative path toward a safe and inclusive future.
The GNRC Forum: A Platform for Global Action
The GNRC Forum is a landmark event in the global interfaith calendar, organized by Arigatou International. It serves as a dynamic platform for dialogue and collaboration, aimed at addressing critical issues affecting children, including violence, poverty, and education inequality. With a shared vision of safeguarding children’s rights, the Forum underscores the urgency of collective action, culminating in the adoption of the Abu Dhabi Declaration, including a comprehensive action plan that outlines strategies for creating safer and more nurturing environments for children worldwide.
KAICIID’s Participation: Driving Programmatic and Strategic Priorities
KAICIID’s engagement at the Forum is marked by the participation of its Secretary General, H.E. Dr Zuhair Alharthi, who will attend alongside other senior leaders. Central to the Center’s involvement is a co-led session titled “Collaborative Communities: Interfaith and Intra-faith Dialogue and Action in Promoting a Safe World.” This session highlights KAICIID’s programmatic priorities by emphasizing interfaith dialogue as a tool for fostering social cohesion and advancing children’s wellbeing.
The session will feature distinguished speakers, including faith leaders, educators, and policymakers, who will share insights and best practices on creating inclusive communities through ethical education and intercultural understanding. This engagement not only aligns with KAICIID’s Strategic Plan 2024-2027 but also underscores its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4.7 (Quality Education) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).
Collaboration with Arigatou International: A Shared Commitment
KAICIID’s long-standing partnership with Arigatou International is central to its engagement at the Forum. Both organizations share a commitment to advancing children’s rights through education and interfaith dialogue. Arigatou’s Ethics Education Fellowship Programme, developed in collaboration with KAICIID, equips educators and faith leaders with tools to promote ethical reflection, critical thinking, and empathy among young learners. This shared vision has laid the groundwork for impactful initiatives, fostering sustainable and inclusive communities globally.
A Vision for the Future: Expected Outcomes
The GNRC Forum is expected to conclude with the adoption of the Abu Dhabi Declaration, which will serve as a roadmap for collaborative action among faith-based and civil society organizations. This Declaration, coupled with the Forum’s Action Plan, will set the stage for tangible outcomes in the areas of child protection, education, and peacebuilding. By participating in this global gathering, KAICIID continues to amplify its role as a catalyst for dialogue and its commitment to younger generations, ensuring that their voices are heard and their futures safeguarded.