The 10th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), held from November 25 to 27, 2024, in Cascais, Portugal, marked two decades of dialogue for Humanity under the theme “United in Peace: Restoring Trust, Reshaping the Future.” As a member of the UNAOC’s Group of Friends, the International Dialogue Centre - KAICIID participated with an official delegation, headed by H.E. Dr Zuhair Alharthi, KAICIID’s Secretary General.

A History of Partnership

KAICIID and UNAOC’s formal cooperation dates back to 2017, with the signing of their first Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This collaboration emphasized interreligious and intercultural dialogue as critical tools for peacebuilding and social cohesion. Renewed in 2020, the MoU underpinned numerous joint initiatives, including capacity-building projects, and collaboration within the framework of the United Nations Plan of Action to Safeguard Religious Sites.

In July 2024, during a strategic meeting in New York, KAICIID Secretary-General H.E. Dr. Zuhair Alharthi and UN Under-Secretary-General and UNAOC High Representative H.E. Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos agreed to further enhance their cooperation through the renewal of the MoU. On the margins of the UNAOC Global Forum, on 25 November, the leadership of both organizations met to mark the extension of the MoU for a period of 4 years, till 2028.

The forum, attended by policymakers, religious leaders, academics, and civil society representatives, provided an inclusive space to reflect on UNAOC’s achievements and define strategies for the future. The discussions revolved around combating hate speech, fostering inclusivity through sports diplomacy, leveraging AI for interfaith dialogue, and promoting transformative education for peace.

Prominent Contributions from KAICIID Networks

KAICIID-supported networks, including the Muslim-Jewish Leadership Council (MJLC) and the European Leaders Meeting for Action (EuLeMa), brought invaluable insights to the forum. Dr. Nedzad Ef. Grabus and Mr. Yahya Pallavicini, representing these networks, contributed to sessions on enhancing the resilience of religious communities against terrorist threats.

Additionally, Sheikh-ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazade, a KAICIID Board of Directors member, participated in a pivotal panel discussion on safeguarding religious sites. His contributions underscored KAICIID’s commitment to inclusive dialogue.

Looking Ahead: Renewed MoU and Strategic Focus

KAICIID’s renewed partnership with UNAOC will frame their future collaborations. The MoU identifies potential areas of collaboration, such as integrating interreligious perspectives into global governance frameworks, fostering youth engagement, protecting sacred sites and addressing the challenges posed by hate speech.

Building a Legacy of Trust and Unity

The 10th UNAOC Global Forum highlighted the enduring importance of dialogue in achieving global peace. KAICIID’s active participation not only reinforced its role as a key partner of UNAOC but also emphasized the power of collaboration in addressing shared challenges. As the world continues to navigate complexities, KAICIID’s unwavering commitment to dialogue and inclusivity stands as a beacon of hope.

Through its partnerships and initiatives, KAICIID remains dedicated to fostering understanding, restoring trust, and reshaping the future for a more united humanity.