NEWS

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, affirmed that the International Day of Conscience represents an important opportunity to renew the call to elevate the voice of the human conscience, strengthen the values of compassion, solidarity, and social responsibility, and enhance collective awareness of the importance of working toward a world founded on peace, justice, and mutual respect.

In a statement, the Muslim Council of Elders noted that the observance of this international occasion—marked annually on April 5—reflects the world’s growing need to revive moral and humanitarian values in the face of the successive wars, conflicts, and crises it continues to endure. The Council emphasized that a living and vigilant conscience remains a vital safeguard that protects societies from sliding into hatred, division, and violence.

The Council further stated that an awakened human conscience constitutes the cornerstone of fostering understanding among peoples and of promoting a culture of dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence. It reaffirmed that all divine religions have called for activating the conscience, safeguarding human dignity, rejecting injustice and aggression, and building bridges of fraternity and cooperation among humankind.

The Muslim Council of Elders renewed its call for coordinated international efforts to promote a culture of peace, strengthen dialogue among religions and cultures, and instill the values of human fraternity in the hearts of younger generations. Such efforts, the Council stressed, contribute to building a world that is more conscious of its shared humanity and better equipped to overcome the causes of hatred, conflict, and division. 

The Council also urged religious, educational, cultural, and media institutions to fulfill their essential role in nurturing the human conscience and instilling the values of compassion, respect, and responsibility, recognizing these principles as fundamental pillars for building cohesive societies capable of safeguarding human dignity and protecting every individual’s right to security, peace, and a dignified life.

The Muslim Council of Elders participated in the forum titled “The UAE: Cohesive Families in a Nation Deeply Rooted in History and Traditions,” organized by the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence of the United Arab Emirates.

His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, affirmed that the forum embodies the UAE’s pioneering vision and the wisdom of its leadership in promoting societal stability, investing in human development, and consolidating national identity within a framework of shared human values. He noted that strengthening the role of the family and fostering its cohesion constitute the cornerstone of safeguarding societies and shaping a more stable and prosperous future.

The Muslim Council of Elders commended the pioneering efforts of the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence in reinforcing social cohesion and in entrenching the family as a fundamental pillar in nurturing aware, responsible generations.

The Muslim Council of Elders, chaired by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar, affirms that discrimination in all its forms and manifestations constitutes a blatant violation of human values and moral principles. The Council emphasizes that cultural and ethnic diversity is a source of richness and strength for societies, rather than a cause of conflict or division.

In a statement marking the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, observed annually on March 21, the Muslim Council of Elders stated that the teachings of the true Islamic faith call for equality, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence among people of all races, colors, and cultures. Almighty Allah says: “And We have certainly honored the children of Adam, carried them on land and sea, provided them with good things, and favored them greatly over much of what We have created.” (Al‑Isra: 70)

The statement explained that racism continues to pose a serious challenge to societies, due to its negative repercussions on social peace and global stability. It stressed that confronting this phenomenon requires concerted international efforts, the promotion of a culture of dialogue and mutual respect, and the reinforcement of the values of citizenship, justice, and equality.

The Muslim Council of Elders is making significant efforts to curb racial discrimination and work toward its elimination through numerous targeted initiatives aimed at promoting equality, respect for and acceptance of others, and strengthening the values of dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.

The Document on Human Fraternity, co-signed in Abu Dhabi in 2019 by His Eminence  Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, and the late His Holiness Pope Francis of the Catholic Church, calls for spreading the values of equality and justice and instilling the principles of tolerance and mutual respect. The document affirms that citizenship is based on equality in rights and duties, under which all people enjoy justice. It further stresses the need to abandon the exclusionary use of the term “minorities,” as it carries connotations of isolation and inferiority, sows the seeds of discord and division, undermines the religious and civil rights of some citizens, and leads to discriminatory practices against them.

The Muslim Council of Elders, chaired by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, extends its appreciation to mothers around the world on the occasion of Mother’s Day, commending their profound sacrifices and their pivotal role in shaping generations, instilling values, and building societies.

In a statement marking Mother’s Day, observed annually on 21 March, the Muslim Council of Elders affirmed that Islam has elevated the status of mothers and honored them with the highest regard, making dutifulness toward them among the greatest acts of devotion, linking kindness to them with the oneness of Almighty Allah, and enjoining exemplary treatment of them—reflecting their exalted standing and essential role in nurturing righteous individuals and building cohesive families.

The Council added that the mother is the first school that shapes human consciousness and instills in children the values of compassion, tolerance, and belonging, making her the cornerstone of societal stability and the promotion of a culture of coexistence and peace. It called for entrenching the culture of honoring parents, strengthening societal awareness of the mother’s status and rights, and working to enact legislation and launch initiatives that ensure mothers a dignified life, in recognition of their immense role.

The Muslim Council of Elders also expressed its deep appreciation for the sacrifices of mothers and their resilience in the face of challenges and crises, particularly in areas affected by conflict and disasters, where mothers bear compounded burdens to preserve family cohesion and protect its dignity. The Council emphasized that supporting, empowering, and protecting the rights of mothers is an urgent humanitarian and moral obligation.

On this occasion, the Muslim Council of Elders affirms that honoring mothers is not merely a seasonal observance, but a fundamental human duty and a daily practice that reflects societies’ awareness of the value of noble human giving. The Council prays to Almighty Allah to protect mothers and to make their continuous contributions beacons guiding future generations toward a more compassionate and stable future.

The Muslim Council of Elders extends its sincere congratulations to His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, on the occasion marking sixteen years since his appointment as Grand Imam of Al-Azhar. This milestone crowns a distinguished journey of dedicated service through which he has firmly established Al-Azhar’s standing as a global beacon of moderation and balance, and as an authority for enlightened Islamic thought.

The Council commends the sincere and tireless efforts of His Eminence in renewing religious discourse, strengthening the values of dialogue and coexistence, and confronting extremist ideologies, in addition to his pioneering role in spreading peace and advancing the principles of human fraternity at both the regional and international levels—thereby reflecting the true image of Islam as a religion that calls for mercy and tolerance.

The Muslim Council of Elders—honored to be chaired by His Eminence—affirms that this occasion represents an important moment to reflect upon the exceptional journey of a global religious leader who has borne the responsibility of promoting the values of wisdom and moderation, defending the causes of the Ummah, and serving all humanity. The Council prays to Almighty Allah to grant His Eminence enduring health and continued strength, to bless his noble efforts, and to preserve him as a source of pride and support for Islam and Muslims everywhere.

The Muslim Council of Elders, chaired by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar, affirms its unequivocal rejection of all forms of extremism, hatred, discrimination, and incitement to violence against Muslims, warning of the growing phenomenon of Islamophobia and the serious threat it poses to coexistence, social peace, and global stability.

In a statement issued on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, observed annually on March 15, the Council called for the launch of a comprehensive global campaign to confront extremist, hateful, and religiously discriminatory rhetoric. It urged the adoption of clear legislation and policies to combat hate and religious discrimination, the promotion of mutual respect and cultural and religious pluralism, and efforts to raise awareness of the true image of Islam as a religion of mercy, justice, and peace—one that upholds human dignity and affirms every person’s right to live in peace and security.

The statement added that Islamophobia is not merely the result of isolated individual attitudes or extremist discourse, but rather a dangerous phenomenon fueled by ignorance and distorted stereotypes, and exploited by far‑right groups to serve narrow political and partisan interests. Such practices contribute to the spread of division and hatred. Confronting this, the Council stressed, requires the concerted efforts of governments, religious institutions, educational bodies, and media organizations to enhance mutual respect and to strengthen citizenship, pluralism, and acceptance of others.

The Muslim Council of Elders continues to exert tireless efforts to highlight the tolerance of the true Islamic faith and to promote enlightened, moderate thought in the face of all forms of fanaticism, extremism, racism, hatred, and discrimination. These efforts are carried out through a range of impactful initiatives and projects, including East–West Dialogue Tours, International Peace Convoys, the Emerging Peacemakers Forum, Student Dialogue Programs for Human Fraternity, and Ramadan missions to various parts of the world.

The Document on Human Fraternity, which was co-signed in Abu Dhabi in 2019 by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb and the late Pope Francis of the Catholic Church, affirms that freedom is a right for every human being—in belief, thought, expression, and practice—and that pluralism and diversity in religion, color, gender, race, and language are manifestations of divine wisdom by which God created humanity. The document establishes these principles as a foundation for the rights to freedom of belief and freedom of difference, and for the rejection of coercing individuals into a particular religion or culture, or imposing a civilizational model that others do not accept.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, affirmed that Zayed Humanitarian Day represents an annual occasion to recall the noble humanitarian values embodied by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founder of the United Arab Emirates—may Allah bless his soul—throughout his distinguished journey of giving, humanitarian service, and dedication to serving humanity everywhere, without discrimination or distinction.

In a statement issued on Zayed Humanitarian Day, observed annually on the nineteenth day of Ramadan, the Muslim Council of Elders noted that Sheikh Zayed’s humanitarian legacy has become a global model to be emulated in promoting the values of solidarity and compassion, providing relief to those in need, spreading goodness, and building bridges of cooperation among peoples. The statement further highlighted that the United Arab Emirates, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, continues to follow the path of its founding father by strengthening humanitarian action and supporting initiatives that serve humanity and safeguard human dignity.

For his part, the Secretary‑General of the Muslim Council of Elders, His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, stated that Zayed Humanitarian Day embodies a comprehensive humanitarian school founded by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, based on upholding human dignity, aiding those in distress, and extending a helping hand to the needy across the world. He emphasized that these noble values have become an integral part of the mission of the United Arab Emirates, its wise leadership, and its approach to global humanitarian action, as well as to the promotion of goodness, love, tolerance, coexistence, and human fraternity.

He added that the legacy of wisdom instilled by Sheikh Zayed in his sons and brothers, Their Highnesses the leaders of the UAE, is evident today in the country’s steadfast approach to confronting challenges. The UAE has set an example of wisdom and responsibility—not only in times of prosperity, but also in times of crisis. This wisdom has enabled the UAE, despite the blatant Iranian attacks it has faced, to stand as a model of resilience, steadfastness, and effective crisis management, guided by humanity and prudence.

The Muslim Council of Elders concluded by affirming that commemorating Zayed Humanitarian Day is not merely a remembrance of the journey of an exceptional leader, but a renewal of commitment to the values of giving and solidarity that he established, and a reaffirmation of a universal message: that serving humanity and assisting those in need is a shared responsibility that transcends borders and cultures.

The Muslim Council of Elders extends its sincere congratulations to His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar and Chairman of the Council, as well as to the scholars, students, alumni, and admirers of Al‑Azhar around the world, on the occasion of the 1086th Hijri anniversary of its founding. For centuries, this revered institution has stood as a distinguished center of learning and religious guidance, a steadfast beacon of moderation and balance, and a stronghold of authentic Islamic scholarship and enlightened human thought.

Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary‑General of the Muslim Council of Elders, stated that throughout its long and distinguished history, Al‑Azhar has served as a cornerstone in promoting the values of peace and coexistence, entrenching a culture of dialogue and respect for diversity, and playing a pivotal role in confronting extremist ideologies and correcting misconceptions. He emphasized that Al‑Azhar has consistently upheld its universal mission, skillfully harmonizing the authenticity of its rich heritage with the demands of the modern age.

He further noted that Al‑Azhar will continue to rank among the world’s most influential religious and academic institutions, guided by a deeply rooted humanitarian message centered on the dissemination of knowledge and the promotion of moderation and tolerance. He added that Al‑Azhar’s scholarly and intellectual contributions continue to reinforce the values of human fraternity and to build enduring bridges of dialogue among peoples and cultures.

The Muslim Council of Elders commends the efforts of His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb in leading Al‑Azhar’s journey of intellectual renewal, strengthening the discourse of moderation and balance, and advancing interfaith and intercultural dialogue, while firmly anchoring the values of human fraternity on the global stage. The Council affirms that, under his wise leadership, Al‑Azhar continues to fulfill its historic mission of disseminating sound knowledge, safeguarding civilizational identity, and promoting a culture of peace and coexistence among all people.

As it marks this historic anniversary, the Muslim Council of Elders renews its pride in Al‑Azhar’s esteemed standing and pioneering global role. It prays that Almighty Allah may preserve Al‑Azhar’s scholarly and humanitarian mission and grant success to its scholars and students as they continue their noble path of spreading knowledge, serving humanity, and fostering peace.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar, extends its warmest congratulations and sincere wishes to the Arab and Islamic nations on the advent of the blessed month of Ramadan.

The Council affirms that the holy month of Ramadan is a profound spiritual occasion for renewing the values of mercy, tolerance, and solidarity, and for drawing inspiration from the lofty human principles enshrined in the noble teachings of Islam. It also emphasizes the importance of embracing this sacred month as an opportunity to strengthen compassion for the poor and the needy, and to extend bridges of love, empathy, and mutual care among all people.

The Muslim Council of Elders calls for reflecting deeply on the spiritual and moral lessons embodied in Ramadan and translating them into meaningful, practical conduct that reinforces unity and coexistence among all components of the Islamic world. It further underscores the importance of consolidating the values of human fraternity and promoting dialogue and acceptance of others, in a manner that supports efforts to achieve peace and stability within societies.

On this blessed occasion, the Muslim Council of Elders prays to Almighty Allah to return the holy month of Ramadan to the Arab and Islamic nations—and to all humanity—with goodness, prosperity, and abundant blessings, and to make it a month of security, peace, and mercy for the entire world.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar, affirms that intellectual prevention and the consolidation of sound, enlightened awareness constitute the first line of defense against all forms of extremism, racism, terrorism, and Islamophobia.

In a statement issued on the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism, observed annually on 12 February, the Council emphasized that violent extremism and the rise of hate speech are not confined to any specific religion or culture. It also underscored the importance of strengthening the values of citizenship, entrenching dialogue, respecting diversity, and promoting enlightened religious awareness—particularly among young people, who remain the primary targets of extremist groups.

His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, stressed that the teachings of Islam, like those of all divine religions, were revealed to bring well‑being and dignity to humanity and were never intended to serve as vehicles for hatred, violence, extremism, or terrorism. He called for unified efforts to promote the values of dialogue, tolerance, coexistence, and peace among all people, regardless of their religions, cultures, or ethnic backgrounds, affirming that this approach represents the most effective path to safeguarding societies and protecting human dignity.

The Muslim Council of Elders has undertaken sustained efforts to dismantle extremist ideologies and correct misconceptions. In this context, the Council has convened seven rounds of East–West dialogue, launched more than fifteen international peace convoys that have reached communities across multiple continents, and organized the Emerging Peacemakers Forum to empower young people to play an active role in promoting the values of peace and coexistence. These and other pioneering initiatives culminated in the signing of the historic Document on Human Fraternity in Abu Dhabi in 2019 by His Eminence the Grand Imam Ahmed Al‑Tayeb and the late Pope Francis, former Pope of the Catholic Church.

The Muslim Council of Elders renews its commitment to continuing its efforts to promote the values of human fraternity and peace, and to working closely with international partners to build societies founded on mutual respect and the preservation of human dignity. These efforts are pursued through a wide range of initiatives and programs aimed at elevating the voice of wisdom and advancing the values of dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.