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Under the Patronage of the President of Azerbaijan, the Muslim Council of Elders Co-Organizes the Global Summit of Religious Leaders for Climate Early Next Month

Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders: The Global Summit of Religious Leaders for Climate in Baku Reflects the Muslim Council of Elders’ Ongoing Commitment to Strengthening Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue for a More Understanding, Harmonious, and Sustainable World

Spiritual Leader of Muslims in Azerbaijan and the Caucasus: We Aim to Build on the Success of Last Year’s Global Faith Leaders Summit in Abu Dhabi to Unite the Voices of Science and Religion in Addressing Climate Challenges

Under the patronage of President Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Caucasus Muslims’ Board (CMB), in collaboration with the Muslim Council of Elders, the COP29 Presidency, and Azerbaijan’s State Committee for Work with Religious Organizations and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), is organizing the Global Summit of Religious Leaders for Climate in Baku. The summit is part of Azerbaijan’s preparations for hosting COP29 and will gather over 300 government representatives, senior UN officials, leaders of international organizations, prominent global religious leaders, scholars, and environmental experts from around the world.

The summit, held under the theme “World Religions for a Green Planet,” aims to emphasize the central role that religions play in global efforts to address climate change. It will highlight a unified stance among global and traditional religious leaders who stand against wars and environmental destruction and advocate for peaceful conflict resolution. The summit will also serve as a platform for dialogue among experts, academics, political and religious leaders, and representatives from public and international organizations. Discussions will focus on urgent modern challenges—particularly wars and environmental crises—to promote international cooperation in tackling climate change and to issue a united call to curb environmental disasters and uphold world peace. This collective vision calls for ending violence, reducing arms, and protecting our planet from environmental threats.

Over the course of two days, the summit will address several key issues, including religious perspectives on climate change, the role of social media and faith communities in protecting the environment, and building trust through interreligious dialogue. It will also explore the harmful impact of terrorism, religious and racial intolerance, hate incitement, and wars on the environment, peaceful communities, and natural ecosystems.

Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, noted that the summit, scheduled for November 5-6 in Baku, represents the Council’s ongoing commitment to promoting interfaith and intercultural dialogue to build a world of greater understanding, harmony, and sustainability. He highlighted the crucial role that religious leaders can play in addressing global challenges, especially climate change, and praised Azerbaijan’s leadership, under President Ilham Aliyev, in advancing interfaith and intercultural dialogue. He added that Azerbaijan’s initiatives have fostered a society that values peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and mutual dialogue, offering an inspiring model for fostering understanding and peace.

He further noted, “Azerbaijan has declared 2024 the ‘Year of Solidarity for a Green World,’ a call that aligns with the Call of Conscience: The Abu Dhabi Joint Statement for Climate, issued last year as a key outcome of the Global Faith Leaders Summit for Climate hosted in Abu Dhabi. This solidarity encourages humanity to live in harmony with nature and work together to protect our world from climate change. We hope this summit will take another step forward in raising global awareness of climate issues.”

For his part, His Virtue Sheikh ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazade, Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims’ Board and spiritual leader of Muslims in Azerbaijan and the Caucasus, stated that the environmental challenges facing humanity today are among the most urgent and dangerous threats to life on Earth. He emphasized that the climate crisis and its destructive impacts demand stronger international collaboration which can also address climate change fundamentally and effectively. This, he noted, was successfully achieved during COP28, which served as an effective platform that brought together policymakers, religious leaders, scientists, and environmental experts, who spent time finding tangible solutions to various climate challenges.

Sheikh-ul-Islam also expressed his hope that the Global Summit of Religious Leaders for Climate in Azerbaijan will build on the success of the previous summit held in Abu Dhabi last year. He also emphasized the vital role that religious leaders can play in raising community awareness of environmental preservation and praised the Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, for uniting the voices of faith and science in the mission to protect our shared planet.

In 2023, as part of its mission to elevate the role of religious leaders in addressing global challenges—especially climate change—and in conjunction with the UAE’s hosting of COP28, the Muslim Council of Elders organized the Global Faith Leaders Summit for Climate on November 6-7. The summit was held in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence, the COP28 Presidency, and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The summit gathered representatives from 18 religions and 30 denominations from around the world, alongside scholars, environmental experts, and civil society members, including youth, women, and indigenous peoples. The event also concluded with the Call of Conscience: The Abu Dhabi Joint Statement for Climate, urging the global community to take concrete actions to address the climate crisis and protect the planet.

His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, attended the official inauguration of His Excellency Prabowo Subianto as President of Indonesia and Gibran Rakabuming Raka as Vice President. The event, held at the Indonesian Parliament in Jakarta, was attended by 19 heads of state and government, 15 special envoys from friendly nations, and a large number of ministers, ambassadors, members of the Muslim Council of Elders, and official delegations.

His Excellency the Council’s Secretary-General conveyed the greetings of His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and President of the Muslim Council of Elders, and wished the new president success in leading Indonesia towards further development, prosperity, and the fulfillment of its people’s aspirations. He praised Indonesia as a model of cultural diversity and peaceful coexistence among various ethnic and religious groups.

For his part, the newly inaugurated President of Indonesia expressed his heartfelt thanks and appreciation to His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, President of the Muslim Council of Elders, and the members of the Council. He expressed his gratitude for the participation of the Muslim Council of Elders alongside numerous official delegations at the inauguration ceremony, affirming that Indonesia deeply values this participation, which reflects the strong bonds of love and friendship with the nation and people of Indonesia.

Muslim Council of Elders and Malaysia Discuss Ways to Enhance Cooperation in Promoting the Values of Dialogue, Tolerance, and Coexistence

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, met with the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, to discuss ways of enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest, particularly in promoting and strengthening the values of tolerance, coexistence, and fraternity among different religions and cultures, as well as addressing the challenges facing the Muslim world.

During the meeting, Judge Abdelsalam highlighted the pivotal role played by the Muslim Council of Elders in fostering dialogue, both between religions and within the Islamic community, to enhance peace and mutual understanding. He emphasized the Council’s ongoing efforts to engage with Muslims worldwide to better understand their most pressing issues and draw inspiration from their historical experiences in building civil peace and societal harmony. He commended Malaysia for being a leading model of diversity and plurality, while maintaining Islamic values, particularly in light of the country’s ongoing development and progress across various fields.

For his part, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, stressed the importance of strengthening efforts to achieve unity among members of the Muslim community to address shared challenges. He expressed his and the Malaysian people’s appreciation for the recent official visit by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, to Malaysia in July. During that visit, the Grand Imam delivered a keynote address at the opening of the Malaysian Scholars and Youth Council titled “The Moderation of the Ummah: Lessons from Past and Future Challenges.” The Prime Minister expressed his eagerness to meet with the Grand Imam again soon to discuss the key challenges facing the Muslim world and commended the Muslim Council of Elders’ commitment to enhancing cooperation with Malaysia in support of the global Muslim community and the promotion of peaceful coexistence.

Ambassador of Uzbekistan to the UAE congratulates the Muslim Council of Elders on the announcement of the second edition of the Faith Pavilion at COP29

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, received the Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the United Arab Emirates, Abdulaziz Okulov, at the Council’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi, where they discussed ways to strengthen mutual cooperation.

During the meeting, Judge Abdelsalam emphasized that the Muslim Council of Elders places significant importance on empowering religious leaders to tackle global challenges, particularly the issue of climate change. This includes organizing the Global Faith Leaders Summit for Climate and the Faith Pavilion at COP28, held for the first time in the history of the Conference of the Parties (COP), and announcing the second edition of the Faith Pavilion at COP29 in Azerbaijan which aims to build on the success of the first edition and ensure the sustainability of COP28’s initiatives.

For his part, the Ambassador of Uzbekistan expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders in promoting and reinforcing the values of dialogue, tolerance, and coexistence. He congratulated the Council on the announcement of the second edition of the Faith Pavilion at COP29, which will take place from November 11 to 22 in the capital of Azerbaijan, Baku.

Faith Pavilion at COP29 Aims to Mobilize Moral and Spiritual Voices to Find Effective Solutions for the Climate Crisis

Faith Pavilion at COP29 Unites Ethical and Religious Voices to Inspire Hope and Promote Collective Action to Overcome Climate Challenges

Faith Pavilion at COP29 Aims to Sustain COP28 Initiatives and Strengthen Collective Spiritual Efforts for Climate Solutions

As the global climate crisis escalates, the Faith Pavilion, organized by the Muslim Council of Elders, is set to play a pivotal role at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), to be hosted in Baku, Azerbaijan, this November. Building on the success of its inaugural edition at COP28, which was held last year in the United Arab Emirates, and which saw widespread global participation and international acclaim, the Faith Pavilion will once again bring together a diverse coalition of 97 organizations representing 11 different religions and sects. This collective will offer unique moral and ethical perspectives to enhance climate action.

The Faith Pavilion will reunite this global coalition to provide religious and moral insights on strengthening climate efforts through a comprehensive program, including over 40 discussion sessions exploring the integration of spirituality and ethics into climate action. Discussions will address restoring spiritual roots to tackle the climate crisis, exploring non-economic impacts of climate change through religious perspectives while empowering students to address environmental challenges through faith teachings, the role of women’s leadership in achieving climate justice, fostering partnerships for climate adaptation, and harnessing indigenous and interfaith wisdom.

At COP29, the Faith Pavilion will also explore other topics related to sustainable lifestyles, faith-inspired eco-villages, innovative climate financing, and intergenerational dialogue. The Pavilion will highlight the principles outlined in the ” Call of Conscience: Abu Dhabi Joint Statement for Climate,” within an interactive framework that will make the Faith Pavilion a hub for transformative ideas and collaborative solutions. These efforts will be driven by shared values and the commitment of faith communities worldwide. The Pavilion will emphasize the shared dedication of these diverse communities to addressing environmental challenges and explore how spiritual teachings can inspire urgent climate action.

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, underscored the pressing need for climate action to adopt innovative solutions grounded in ethical values and scientific knowledge. He emphasized the crucial role that religious and intellectual leaders play as a powerful moral voice capable of guiding individuals and communities toward embracing the principles of justice and sustainability. Judge Abdelsalam noted that the Faith Pavilion at COP29 builds on the significant success of its inaugural edition at COP28 in Dubai and aims to ensure the continuity of COP28’s initiatives while strengthening the collective spiritual effort in addressing climate challenges.

Judge Abdelsalam extended his gratitude to the Higher Committee that oversaw preparations for COP28 for its support of the Faith Pavilion initiative, organized by the Muslim Council of Elders during COP28. He commended the committee’s commitment to maintaining this essential initiative as a permanent platform for dialogue among thought and religious leaders, with the objective of identifying effective solutions to the pressing challenges posed by climate change.

In a significant development, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) will, for the first time, present a series of scientific sessions at the Faith Pavilion. Sessions will focus on bridging the gap between science and religion, offering advanced insights into the environmental crisis while grounding these discussions in ethical and spiritual frameworks. The collaboration underscores the importance of integrating scientific knowledge with moral imperatives to address the climate crisis.

The Faith Pavilion at COP29 will also continue to frame climate change as a profound religious and ethical issue. Religious leaders from the 11 represented faiths and sects will issue a call to global policymakers, urging them to consider the spiritual and moral consequences of environmental neglect and take immediate, decisive action to protect the planet. This ethical framing is expected to influence broader COP29 negotiations, encouraging decision-makers to incorporate moral considerations into their future climate strategies.

Recognizing the vital role of young people in the fight against climate change, the Faith Pavilion will also prominently feature youth leaders from various faith backgrounds who will bring fresh perspectives and highlight the need for intergenerational collaboration in addressing the climate crisis. Additionally, the Pavilion will showcase successful youth and community-driven initiatives led by faith-based organizations, demonstrating the tangible impact of grassroots climate action.

The Faith Pavilion at COP29 aims to bridge the gap between spiritual, scientific, and policy-driven approaches by fostering collaboration among the participating organizations, religious leaders, scientists, and policymakers. The Pavilion will also seek to address potential challenges and enhance the effectiveness of faith-driven climate advocacy. This collaborative spirit will be crucial in ensuring that the voices of faith communities are meaningfully integrated into global climate policy.

Moreover, the Pavilion will deliver a strong message of unity and hope, emphasizing the potential for collective action to overcome the climate crisis. Participants at the Faith Pavilion will call on the global community to embrace a sustainable relationship with nature, grounded in ethical principles of stewardship, compassion, and justice. 

As the world gathers in Baku, the Faith Pavilion will undoubtedly serve as a beacon of spiritual leadership, guiding the way toward a more just and sustainable future for humanity.

About the Faith Pavilion at COP29

The Faith Pavilion at COP29, co-hosted by the Muslim Council of Elders and the Faith Pavilion Coalition, is a continuation of an interfaith initiative that began at COP28 in Dubai, UAE. It aims to infuse moral and ethical perspectives into global climate discussions. As an integral part of the United Nations Climate Change Conference, the Pavilion serves as a dedicated platform for Faith-Based Organizations and Religious Institutions from various major religions to advocate for climate justice and inspire meaningful action.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, together with the Council members and the Secretary-General, expresses its heartfelt condolences to His Eminence Sayyid Ali Al-Amin, the religious leader in Lebanon, on the passing of his wife. The Council prays that Allah Almighty envelops the late wife in His infinite mercy and forgiveness, grants her a place in His eternal paradise, and gives strength and patience to her family, loved ones, and all who mourn her loss.

“To Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return.”

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, strongly condemns the Israeli authorities’ decision to confiscate the headquarters of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in East Jerusalem, suspend its operations, and the plan to build a settlement in its place. The Council asserts that this action poses a serious threat to the established historical and legal status of the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

The Muslim Council of Elders expresses its absolute rejection of any attacks on humanitarian facilities or any actions that endanger the lives of their staff. At the same time, the Council commends the ongoing efforts of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in supporting the Palestinian people, who continue to face severe humanitarian challenges due to the prolonged Israeli occupation.

The Council renews its call to the international community and all relevant actors to intensify and unify their efforts to bring about a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon and to halt illegal practices that undermine the two-state solution and jeopardize the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital. Furthermore, the Council urges the international community to step up its efforts in providing urgent humanitarian and relief assistance to civilians in Gaza and Lebanon, alleviating their suffering.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, emphasizes that climate change poses an existential threat to humanity, with its adverse effects increasingly impacting communities worldwide. The council highlighted that recurring natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes affect millions of lives, displacing thousands and causing severe damage. Children, youth, and vulnerable groups are particularly affected by these environmental crises, facing disruptions in education, health deterioration, nutritional challenges, and complex social and economic difficulties, all of which demand collective efforts to address.

In a statement on the International Day for Disaster Reduction, observed annually on October 13th, the Muslim Council of Elders reaffirmed that Islam places a strong moral and religious responsibility on humanity to care for natural resources and live in harmony with the environment. Islam teaches the obligation to preserve the earth’s resources for future generations, urging the protection of the planet and its resources while prohibiting harm and destruction. The council called on governments, international climate organizations, and civil society to intensify global efforts to mitigate the effects of natural disasters, which cause immense human, economic, and social losses worldwide. This can be achieved through comprehensive strategies aimed at reducing human and material losses, improving early warning systems, enhancing technological capabilities, and sharing knowledge and expertise between nations to minimize the impacts of natural disasters.

The Muslim Council of Elders actively engages in raising awareness about environmental issues and climate change, as well as promoting the role of religious leaders in addressing climate challenges. The council organized the Global Summit of Faith Leaders for Climate, attended by representatives of 18 different religions, sects, and denominations from across the globe, along with scientists, academics, environmental experts, and civil society representatives, including youth, women, and indigenous peoples. The summit culminated in the launch of the “Call of Conscience: Abu Dhabi Joint Climate Statement,” co-signed by 30 religious leaders worldwide, which urged global policymakers to implement concrete and necessary solutions to combat climate change. Furthermore, the council organized the Faith Pavilion at COP28, the first of its kind in the history of the Conference of the Parties, which served as a global platform for participants from 54 countries, 9 religious denominations, and over 70 organizations and institutions worldwide to exchange perspectives and find effective solutions to address climate issues.

Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders: The Convening of the First Forum for Young Religious Leaders is a Significant Milestone in the History of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions

Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam: The Muslim Council of Elders Places Great Importance on Empowering, Training, and Enhancing the Capabilities of Youth to Become Ambassadors of Peace for Global Civil Society

Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders: Young Religious Leaders Play a Crucial Role in Addressing Future Challenges Facing Humanity

The Muslim Council of Elders participated in the first Forum for Young Religious Leaders, held under the theme “Shaping a Shared Future: The Role of Young Leaders in Promoting Interfaith Dialogue.” The forum took place alongside the 22nd session of the General Secretariat of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, hosted in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. The event saw the participation of around 30 religious leaders and heads of international organizations from 20 countries.

In his speech, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, highlighted the crucial role of young religious leaders in addressing the future challenges facing humanity, particularly in achieving sustainable development, which affects both present and future generations and requires a just and effective response. He emphasized that faith-based values and ethical principles are indispensable in countering the negative effects of individual selfishness, materialistic ambitions, excessive consumption, conflicts of interest, as well as national, ethnic, and religious divides.

Judge Abdelsalam further noted that the first Forum for Young Religious Leaders is a significant milestone in the history of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, which began 21 years ago. He pointed out that some of the young leaders attending the forum were born in the same year as the Congress’ inception, making their participation a clear signal that the new generation is now carrying the torch and continuing the legacy with an awareness of the global challenges.

He expressed his delight at the participation of an exceptional group of young religious leaders, who are motivated by their faith to work together for the common good of the world, playing their part in shaping a shared future for its people through the noble message of religions and promoting dialogue and understanding among different faiths. He commended the innovative concept behind the forum, which included an interactive exhibition that combined art, literature, and information, showcasing youth contributions to developing the forum. The goal was to shape a shared future in which young religious leaders promote interfaith dialogue in a way that reflects their visions and aspirations, meeting the demands of their generation.

Judge Abdelsalam also explained that, under the leadership of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, the Muslim Council of Elders is firmly committed to empowering youth, enhancing their capabilities, and preparing them to become ambassadors of peace in global civil society. He highlighted several pioneering initiatives launched by the Council, including the Emerging Peacemakers Forum, the Student Dialogues Program for Human Fraternity, and the Ethical Education Fellowship Program. These initiatives aim to train young people in the values of coexistence and peacebuilding, grounded in a shared vision of a world where individuals of all nationalities, religions, ethnicities, and backgrounds collaborate to foster peace and human fraternity, replacing conflict, violence, and war. The initiatives also create lasting connections between youth, who are the leaders of today and tomorrow, empowering them to guide the world toward establishing peace in various communities.

Judge Abdelsalam also expressed his hope that the outcomes of this foundational forum for young religious leaders would help shape its strategy, define its future direction, and offer creative ideas and proposals that reflect the energy and dynamism expected from the Secretariat of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. He emphasized the importance of involving youth in the interfaith dialogue process, ensuring that their perspectives and vitality drive the dialogue forward.

Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders Meets with the Grand Mufti, Head of the Spiritual Department of Muslims of Kazakhstan, to Discuss Strengthening Cooperation in Supporting and Empowering Youth and Protecting Them from Destructive and Extremist Movements

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, met with His Eminence Nurizbay Taganuli Utbenov, the Grand Mufti and Head of the Spiritual Department of Muslims of Kazakhstan, during the 22nd session of the Secretariat of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, held on October 7 and 8 in Astana, Kazakhstan. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in addressing the challenges facing Muslim communities, particularly in safeguarding youth from the influence of destructive and extremist ideologies.

Judge Abdelsalam emphasized that the Muslim Council of Elders, under the leadership of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, places significant importance on empowering young people to promote peace and spread the values of tolerance and human fraternity. He highlighted several pioneering initiatives undertaken by the Council, including the Emerging Peacemakers Forum, the Student Dialogues for Human Fraternity, and the Ethical Education Program. These programs aim to foster a culture of dialogue and peaceful coexistence, providing a global platform for young people from different cultures and faiths to contribute innovative ideas on enhancing interfaith and intercultural solidarity, turning these values into practical actions that support peaceful coexistence in societies.

His Eminence Nurizbay Utbenov underscored the crucial role religious leaders play in guiding and protecting youth from extremist ideologies. He praised the efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders, led by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, in promoting peace, tolerance, moderation, and combating all forms of extremism and terrorism. He also noted that the Council’s Central Asia branch, based in Astana, serves as a pioneering platform for promoting dialogue, enhancing coexistence, engaging with Muslim communities in the region, and reviving the intellectual heritage of Muslim scholars, introducing these figures to younger generations.

Both parties concluded also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening constructive cooperation and agreed to launch several joint initiatives, including a series of publications promoting enlightened and moderate thought, as well as efforts to advance dialogue and peaceful coexistence.