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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.

The members of the General Secretariat of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in Kazakhstan unanimously elected Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, as a Goodwill Ambassador of the Congress for a term of three years. This recognition honors the significant role the Muslim Council of Elders plays in promoting interfaith dialogue and its ongoing commitment to fostering and advancing the values of dialogue, coexistence, and human fraternity. The election took place during the 22nd session of the General Secretariat meetings of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, held from October 6 to 7 in Kazakhstan’s capital, Astana.

According to the special regulations of the Congress, the title of “Goodwill Ambassador” is awarded to influential figures and leaders who have made notable contributions to promoting dialogue between religions, cultures, and civilizations. It also recognizes those who enhance religious and spiritual values, mutual respect, and the building of harmonious social relations, both nationally and internationally.

The Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions is one of the most important global conferences aimed at fostering dialogue among religious leaders worldwide. It first convened in 2003, and its seventh edition in September 2022 witnessed the historic and symbolic presence of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, along with His Holiness Pope Francis, Pontiff of the Catholic Church.

Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam has served as an advisor to His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, for over 10 years. He is a member of the Center for Interfaith Dialogue at Al-Azhar, a board member of the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence, co-president of Religions for Peace, and Secretary-General of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity. He also served as Secretary-General of the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity for four years and played a key role in drafting the historic Document on Human Fraternity, co-signed by Pope Francis and His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb in Abu Dhabi in 2019. Additionally, he was a principal member of the constitutional assembly tasked with drafting Egypt’s new constitution in 2013 and contributed to the preparation of various key Al-Azhar documents.

Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders: The Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions Leads Significant Efforts to Foster Values of Tolerance and Deepen a Culture of Understanding and Mutual Respect

Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders Calls for Strengthening the Role of Religious Leaders in Promoting Justice

Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam: The First Forum of Young Religious Leaders is an Important Step Towards Ensuring the Continuity of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions with its Noble Mission and Goals

Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders Elected as a Goodwill Ambassador for the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in Kazakhstan

Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, participated in the 22nd session of the General Secretariat of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, held on October 7 and 8 in Astana, Kazakhstan. The session saw the participation of approximately 30 religious leaders and heads of international organizations from 20 countries around the world.

In his speech, the Secretary-General expressed the Muslim Council of Elders’ appreciation for the remarkable efforts of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in promoting values of tolerance and mutual respect, and in fostering understanding among religious communities. He praised the Congress for establishing a pioneering experience since its launch in Astana in 2003. Judge Abdelsalam also commended Kazakhstan for its rich religious, cultural, and civilizational diversity, which has been a continuous historical legacy.

Abdelsalam also highlighted that the Muslim Council of Elders has maintained an active presence in this international conference over the past number of years, participating in seven consecutive sessions including in 2022 when Astana hosted a symbolic and historic gathering featuring His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, alongside His Holiness Pope Francis and other religious leaders from around the world.

The Secretary-General welcomed the decision to hold the first Forum of Young Religious Leaders, stating that it ensures the continuation of this important global conference with its noble mission. He further emphasized that young, educated, and dynamic religious leaders of today have the potential to overcome longstanding barriers between institutions and can come together to uphold universal human values equally for all.

Judge Abdelsalam concluded by reaffirming the Muslim Council of Elders’ commitment, as a member of the Congress’s General Secretariat, to advancing the role of religious leaders in promoting human justice. This will be done by leveraging the Council’s experience in coordinating with global religious institutions and contributing to organizing regional interfaith consultations, as outlined in the Congress’s upcoming agenda.

The session also included an in-depth discussion on developing and strengthening interfaith dialogue, and introduced new initiatives aimed at advancing the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions from 2023 to 2033. Additionally, the Congress discussed organizing the first Forum of Young Religious Leaders, which aims to provide a platform for intergenerational dialogue and encourage younger religious leaders to engage with global spiritual and social challenges.

In an effort to promote religious diplomacy and expand the role of religions in building bridges between cultures and nations, a new regulation was adopted defining the roles of the Congress’s Goodwill Ambassadors. Prominent figures were appointed to this prestigious position, tasked with supporting efforts to promote peace and understanding among religions, cultures, and civilizations around the world. Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam was unanimously elected as a Goodwill Ambassador of the Congress for a renewable three-year term, in recognition of his dedication to promoting dialogue, tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and interfaith and intercultural understanding.

Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders Visits Moscow Islamic Institute to Explore Enhancing Research and Academic Cooperation in Promoting Tolerance, Coexistence, and Enlightened Moderate Thought

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, met with Professor Damir Mukhetdinov, Principal of the Moscow Islamic Institute, in the Russian capital, Moscow. The pair discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in research and strategic studies aimed at promoting enlightened moderate thought and presenting Islamic heritage and culture in a civilizational manner based on the values of tolerance, coexistence, and mutual respect. The pair also emphasized the importance of upholding the principles of moderation and openness to different world cultures.

During his visit to the Moscow Islamic Institute, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam toured the institute, meeting with several professors and students, and reviewed key educational programs. He highlighted the critical role that educational and religious institutions play in training a new generation capable of spreading Islam’s true message and promoting a culture of tolerance and peace among nations. He also noted that the Muslim Council of Elders is committed to supporting these efforts through initiatives and projects such as “Al Hokama Publishing,” which addresses key intellectual and cultural issues, and the Al Hokama Center for Peace Research, the first international non-governmental research center focused on promoting peace in the Muslim world.

Professor Damir Mukhetdinov praised the efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, in promoting the values of moderation and tolerance and fostering dialogue and understanding between different cultures and religions. He noted that the Moscow Islamic Institute is a pioneering educational institution, training specialists in Islamic preaching and guidance through programs in Islamic jurisprudence, contributing to the development of scholars capable of serving society and spreading Islamic values. He also expressed his enthusiasm for collaborating with the Al Hokama Center for Peace Research to expand the exchange of intellectual and scientific expertise, and to advance studies that promote a correct understanding of Islam.

The Moscow Islamic Institute was established in 1999 by the Religious Administration of Muslims of the Russian Federation and is a prominent academic institution that prepares Muslim scholars through programs in Islamic jurisprudence at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.

Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders Meets President of the Institute of Oriental Studies at the Russian Academy of Sciences and Discusses Strengthening Cooperation in Strategic Research and Studies Related to Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam has met Professor Vitaly Naumkin, President of the Institute of Oriental Studies at the Russian Academy of Sciences, and the Director of the Institute Dr. Ali Akbar Ali Akbarov, during his visit to the Russian Federation. The meeting discussed areas of mutual interest and explored ways to enhance cooperation and exchange academic expertise in strategic research and studies related to interfaith and intercultural dialogue.

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders emphasized the importance of strengthening academic and research collaboration among institutions to address global challenges. He highlighted that scientific research and strategic studies are fundamental pillars in achieving social peace and fostering tolerance, coexistence, and human fraternity. He also noted that the Muslim Council of Elders actively pursues these goals through its Center for Peace Research, which was established to address gaps in peace studies and related fields of knowledge. The center has produced over 25 research papers involving numerous scholars and academics and has published 17 studies on critical intellectual and cultural topics, including identity-based peace and trends in thought within the Islamic world.

For his part, Professor Naumkin commended the pioneering efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, in promoting and consolidating the values of tolerance, pluralism, human fraternity, and mutual respect among different peoples, cultures, and religions. He expressed his eagerness to collaborate with the Council in developing joint research initiatives that will build bridges of communication and understanding, encourage cultural and intellectual dialogue, and contribute to achieving global peace and security.

The Institute of Oriental Studies at the Russian Academy of Sciences, founded in 1818, plays a crucial role in advancing Oriental studies in Russian Federation. It comprises 500 researchers who study the historical, cultural, political, and economic aspects of Asia and North Africa and is one of the largest research institutions specializing in social studies within the Russian Academy of Sciences. The Institute annually organizes a series of conferences, contributing to the publication of 100 books and 700 articles in various scientific and academic fields.

Muslim Council of Elders and the UN Special Adviser on Prevention of Genocide discuss ways to enhance the role of youth in addressing hate speech

Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders meets the United Nations Special Adviser on Prevention of Genocide to discuss ways to engage youth in combating hate speech

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam has met with Alice Wairimu Nderitu, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide. The discussion centered on ways to strengthen cooperation in promoting and embedding a culture of tolerance and human coexistence, in response to the growing spread of hate speech, intolerance, and discrimination. They also explored effective mechanisms to counter these issues, which pose a serious threat around the world.

The Secretary-General highlighted the Muslim Council of Elders’ significant efforts in promoting and fostering the values of tolerance, peace, and peaceful coexistence. He emphasized the Council’s role in building bridges of communication and understanding between different peoples and cultures, as well as fostering peace. He also noted that the Council has launched many pioneering initiatives, especially targeting youth, such as the ‘Emerging Peacemakers Forum’ and the ‘Student Dialogues Program for Human Fraternity’ which aim to empower and develop the capabilities of young people across various fields, whilst leveraging modern technologies like artificial intelligence and social media platforms to combat harmful ideologies, misinformation, and hate speech, while promoting enlightened and moderate thinking.

For her part, the UN Special Adviser praised the crucial role played by the Muslim Council of Elders under the leadership of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, in addressing contemporary humanitarian challenges such as extremism and hatred. She commended the Council’s pioneering and diverse initiatives, particularly the historic Abu Dhabi Document on Human Fraternity, which she described as one of the most significant documents advancing the values of fraternity and coexistence in modern times. She also underscored the importance of focusing on youth, as they are both highly impacted by and influential within society. This, she stressed, requires international cooperation to develop effective strategies that protect young people from being drawn into destructive ideologies and extremist rhetoric that lead to violence.

During a side event of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly – Muslim Council of Elders participates in the High-Level Meeting on Trust and Global Governance: Climate Action, Linking the UN Summit of the Future with COP29

Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders: Justice and equity are two essential pillars for delivering an effective response to the climate crisis

*Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam: Religious teachings can inspire individuals to strive for justice and solidarity, enhancing their ability to address global crises*

*Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders: The Council has launched several pioneering and exceptional initiatives to activate the role of religious leaders in global climate action*

*Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam: The Faith Pavilion was a powerful testament to the ability of religious communities to unite around shared values of environmental stewardship, compassion, and justice*

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, participated in the High-Level Meeting on Trust and Global Governance: Climate Action, Linking the UN Summit of the Future with COP29, held on the sidelines of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 25-26. The event was attended by various policymakers, academics, environmental experts, and civil society representatives, including Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization; Achim Steiner, Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme; Miguel Ángel Moratinos, High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations; and Mukhtar Babayev, President-designate of COP29 and Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

During the panel session titled “COP29: Addressing justice and equity for an effective response to the climate crisis,” Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam emphasized that as the climate crisis worsens, the burden falls disproportionately on the world’s most vulnerable populations, despite their minimal contribution to climate change. He pointed out that their lack of voice and adequate representation in decision-making processes leads to policies that do not adequately address their needs and priorities. Justice and equity, he stated, are essential pillars for delivering an effective response to the climate crisis. He also highlighted the importance of the topics discussed by participants at the High-Level Meeting on Trust and Global Governance, which connects the UN Summit of the Future to COP29.

In his speech, Judge Abdelsalam noted that religious teachings can inspire individuals to strive for justice and solidarity, enhancing their ability to tackle global crises through fair and equitable solutions. He added, “As we continue these crucial discussions, we are reminded of the words of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, who said, ‘Climate change presents a global challenge that demands a response rooted in justice, equity, and solidarity.’ This spirit is precisely what we need today to renew our commitment to building a more just and sustainable future.” He also cited Pope Francis’ encyclical ‘Laudato si’, stating that humanity does not face two separate crises—one environmental and one social—but rather a single complex crisis that encompasses both.

Judge Abdelsalam also highlighted the pioneering initiatives undertaken by the Muslim Council of Elders to activate the role of religious leaders in global climate action. Among these initiatives was the convening of the Global Faith Leaders Summit for Climate, which led to the release of the “Call of Conscience: Abu Dhabi Joint Statement for Climate,” which was signed by 30 religious leaders. The statement called on policymakers to take decisive and practical steps to address the climate crisis. Furthermore, the Muslim Council of Elders, for the first time in COP history, established the “Faith Pavilion” at COP28, which served as a global platform for religious leaders to discuss and shape a common vision for international responses to urgent environmental challenges. The Faith Pavilion was a powerful demonstration of the ability of diverse religious and spiritual communities to unite around shared values of environmental stewardship, compassion, and justice, transcending borders, cultures, and ideologies, and motivating people to take meaningful action in addressing the climate crisis.

Judge Abdelsalam concluded his remarks by expressing his gratitude to the Republic of Azerbaijan and President Ilham Aliyev for their commitment to including religious leaders and amplifying their voices in addressing climate challenges during COP29. He also highlighted the upcoming Global Faith Leaders Summit in Baku on November 5-6, followed by the launch of the “Faith Pavilion” in the Blue Zone at COP29, organized by the Muslim Council of Elders in cooperation with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the COP29 Presidency.

The High-Level Meeting on Trust and Global Governance: Climate Action, Linking the UN Summit of the Future with COP29, hosted a series of sessions that addressed numerous pressing issues, including ways to reorganize global governance, translating the Pact for the Future into meaningful action, addressing migration and displacement during times of crisis, bridging gaps in climate finance, and empowering women in multilateral systems.

Alongside the Summit for the Future in New York – Muslim Council of Elders and the Vatican discuss enhancing joint cooperation in promoting the values of coexistence and peace

Alongside the Summit for the Future in New York – Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders meets the Secretary of State of the Vatican

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of Vatican City, alongside the Summit for the Future organized by the United Nations at its headquarters in New York on September 22 and 23. The pair discussed bilateral relations and joint initiatives aimed at promoting and enhancing the values of dialogue, tolerance, coexistence, and peace.

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders emphasized the important role that religious leaders and figures play in addressing global challenges. He pointed out that the Faith Pavilion at COP29, scheduled to be held in Azerbaijan, is a continuation of the success of the Faith Pavilion at COP28 in Dubai. The pavilion aims to enhance the participation of religious leaders and figures in global climate action. He also noted that Pope Francis’ visit to Indonesia, the largest Muslim country in the world, embodied the spirit of tolerance and peaceful coexistence between 0religions. It also sent a significant message about the need for concerted efforts on a central issue that concerns all humanity—climate change.

For his part, Cardinal Pietro Parolin said that religion can play a pivotal role in raising global environmental awareness and encouraging positive community engagement. He also highlighted that the Document on Human Fraternity, co-signed by His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, and His Holiness Pope Francis in Abu Dhabi in 2019, and the resulting pioneering initiatives, including the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity and the Abrahamic Family House, require continuous and diligent efforts to build on the legacy they have established in promoting global dialogue, peace, understanding, and respect between different cultures and religions. He also praised the efforts of the United Arab Emirates in promoting and strengthening the values and principles of human fraternity, and in fostering tolerance, peace, and coexistence.

In a celebration that captured both official and public attention, the Muslim Council of Elders wrapped up its inaugural participation at the Baghdad International Book Fair to critical acclaim.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ efforts to promote tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and inter-Islamic dialogue received widespread praise from all sectors of Iraqi society.

The pavilion of the Muslim Council of Elders concluded its first notable participation in the Baghdad International Book Fair, which received widespread acclaim for the Council’s efforts in spreading and establishing the culture of tolerance and peaceful coexistence, building bridges of communication, dialogue, and understanding, and enhancing the values of inter-Islamic dialogue. The pavilion attracted visitors from different components of Iraqi society, who were keen to visit the pavilion and learn about the latest events and major publications, and participate in the cultural activities and events organized by the pavilion from September 12 to 22 in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad.

The pavilion of the Muslim Council of Elders witnessed a large influx of leaders and officials, top scholars, and Fiqh jurists in Iraq. Notably present were the President of Iraq, Dr. Abdul Latif Al-Rashid; His Excellency Dr. Ahmad Fakak Al-Badrani, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities; His Excellency Dr. Ahmad Al-Mubarqa, Minister of Youth and Sports; His Excellency Dr. Ibrahim Namis Al-Jubouri, Minister of Education; Dr. Walid Al-Hilli, Advisor to the Prime Minister of Iraq; His Excellency Dr. Hassan Nazim, former Minister of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities and the official spokesperson of the Iraqi government; Dr. Adnan Al-Jumaili, Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research for Administrative and Financial Affairs; Dr. Alaa Abdul Hassan, Advisor to the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research; a delegation from the Council of Iraqi Scholars led by Sheikh Dr. Mahmoud Abdul Aziz Al-Ani; His Eminence Dr. Jawad Al-Khoei, President of the Al-Khoei Institute and the accompanying delegation; Dr. Mustafa Al-Ani,  Director of the Baghdad International Book Fair, in addition to a group of intellectuals and thinkers, all of whom praised the Council’s efforts in promoting the values of tolerance and shared coexistence, establishing bonds of communication and understanding among different Islamic schools of thought, and supporting efforts aimed at unifying the nation and restoring its civilizational role.

The delegation from the Muslim Council of Elders, participating in the Baghdad International Book Fair, also made visits to several Iraqi religious institutions, notably the Iraqi Fiqh Academy and the Al-Khoei Institute. Discussions focused on the urgent need to unify the Muslim community and promote a culture of understanding, dialogue, and communication among various Muslim sects and Islamic schools of thought. The parties exchanged views on numerous significant issues affecting the Arab and Muslim world, including the role of scholars and religious institutions in combating extremism and enhancing a moderate discourse based on correct scriptural interpretation and reasoning, highlighting the tolerance of Islam.

In line with the Muslim Council of Elders’ efforts to correct misconceptions and spread enlightened, moderate thought, and to build bridges of understanding with others, the Council’s pavilion gifted copies of its diverse and high-quality publications to several universities and intellectual, scientific, and cultural institutions in Iraq. These recipients welcomed this generous gesture, affirming that these publications will aid researchers and students, enrich academic libraries with moderate intellectual content, correct misconceptions through providing reliable reference sources, and help build an aware generation capable of facing intellectual challenges and achieving peaceful coexistence and understanding.

For the first time, the Muslim Council of Elders participated with a dedicated pavilion at the Baghdad International Book Fair, showcasing over 220 publications in 5 different languages, including 24 new releases that address key intellectual and cultural issues. The Council also organized a series of distinguished seminars and lectures, featuring a selection of top thinkers, scholars, and academics. These sessions discussed various topics related to enhancing dialogue and understanding among all Muslim sects and schools of thought. The seminars explored the principles and foundations of inter-Islamic dialogue in light of the objectives of Shari’a, as well as the current and future state of this dialogue among the Ummah, in addition to mechanisms for activating the role of educational and scientific institutions in promoting inter-Islamic dialogue.

The Current State and Future of Inter-Islamic Dialogue Among the Ummah: Conclusion of the Seminar Series at the Muslim Council of Elders’ Pavilion at the Baghdad International Book Fair

*Sheikh Jawad Al-Khalisi: The Call by His Eminence, Al-Azhar’s Grand Imam, to Strengthen Inter-Islamic Dialogue Comes at a Crucial Moment in the Ummah’s History, Demanding Collective Efforts to Promote Mutual Understanding and Respect*

*Director of the Al-Hokama Center for Peace Research: Inter-Islamic Dialogue is a Neglected Duty and an Urgent Necessity for Muslims Today, as a Fulfilment of their Faith’s Command and in Response to the Unprecedented Challenges They Face*

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the Baghdad International Book Fair concluded its cultural program, which ran throughout the event, with a seminar titled “Follow-ups and Ideas on the Present and Future of Dialogue Among the Ummah.” The seminar was led by Sheikh Jawad Al-Khalisi, a prominent religious authority in Iraq, and Dr. Samir Boudinar, Director of the Al-Hokama Center for Peace Research. The discussion focused on the importance of inter-Islamic dialogue in rebuilding trust within the Ummah, and the key requirements for establishing a solid foundation for this dialogue. It emphasized mutual respect and a deep understanding of shared values across various intellectual schools and Islamic sects, as crucial steps in addressing the significant challenges facing the Ummah’s future.

At the start of the seminar, Dr. Samir Boudinar stated that Islamic dialogue is a neglected obligation and a vital necessity for Muslims today, in response to their faith and the unprecedented challenges they face. He highlighted that the Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion, through a series of cultural seminars and lectures at the Baghdad International Book Fair, has worked to chart a path for inter-Islamic dialogue, especially following the historic call made by His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, in Bahrain a year and a half ago, calling for an inter-Islamic dialogue among the different components of the Ummah. 

Dr. Samir Boudinar, Director of the Al-Hokama Center for Peace Research, emphasized that there is no question about the legitimacy, relevance, and importance of Islamic dialogue in addressing the challenges facing Muslims today. He stressed the need for a clear framework for this dialogue and for building on the progress made over decades. Intellectual leaders in the Ummah have long recognized the value of dialogue, initiating various efforts under themes of reconciliation and communication. However, this process now urgently requires drawing on past experiences, refining mechanisms, and reassessing goals to ensure that dialogue within the Ummah is productive and successful in achieving its intended outcomes.

Sheikh Jawad Al-Khalisi echoed these sentiments, underscoring the importance of moving inter-Islamic dialogue from theory to practical action. He noted that the Ummah is currently in a prime moment for dialogue among its members, due to its deep awareness of its mission and its commitment to the responsibility that Allah has entrusted to it. Throughout Islamic history, the Ummah has sought ways to ensure its unity and cohesion. Thus, the call by the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar to strengthen inter-Islamic dialogue comes at a crucial time, requiring unified efforts to foster greater understanding and mutual respect.

The religious authority in Iraq noted that inter-Islamic dialogue has never truly stopped throughout history. It has always been alive in the conscience of the Ummah through remarkable examples and reflected in the efforts of scholars and reformers from various intellectual traditions, who enriched the Ummah with their thoughts. He emphasized that dialogue among the intellectual and religious leaders of the Muslim world remains the most effective way to maintain unity and stability. Today, dialogue is not a mere option but a pressing necessity to ensure the Ummah’s continuity and advancement, acting as its true safeguard against external threats.

For the first time, the Muslim Council of Elders is showcasing a dedicated pavilion at the Baghdad International Book Fair. This initiative aligns with its mission to promote peace, reinforce the values of dialogue and tolerance, and build bridges of coexistence among people of diverse backgrounds and beliefs. The Council’s pavilion (H2), located in the Baghdad Hall, features over 220 publications in five languages, including 24 new releases that address key intellectual and cultural topics. The pavilion also hosts a series of distinguished seminars and lectures, featuring prominent thinkers, scholars, and academics, aimed at fostering dialogue and understanding among various Islamic sects, while promoting cooperation and unity across the Ummah.