Document On Human Fraternity Shapes A Global Humanitarian Path For Peace And Dialogue

The Muslim Council of Elders states that the Document on Human Fraternity remains a key global reference for dialogue and peace. Marking the International Day of Human Fraternity on 4 February, the Council says the text provides guidance for tackling rising tensions worldwide and for protecting human dignity through dialogue, coexistence and mutual respect.

The Council explains that the United Nations General Assembly chose 4 February, the signing date of the document, as the International Day of Human Fraternity by unanimous decision. This step shows broad recognition of the need to build on the document’s ethical foundations and to convert its ideas into real policies that reduce hatred, extremism and exclusion.

The Document on Human Fraternity was signed in Abu Dhabi in 2019 by His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, and Pope Francis of the Catholic Church. According to the Council, this event marked a decisive turning point and launched a new humanitarian direction for international relations based on shared human values.

The Muslim Council of Elders stresses that the Document on Human Fraternity is not only a statement of principles. The Council describes it as a practical framework that encourages shared action among religious and intellectual figures, decision‑makers, and education and media institutions, aiming to build collective responsibility and reinforce trust between societies and nations.

Marking the International Day of Human Fraternity, the Council calls for ongoing global efforts to strengthen universal human values. It underlines the need to teach younger generations habits of dialogue and tolerance, so that future societies become more fair and balanced, with human dignity at the heart of political, social and cultural life.

The Muslim Council of Elders also confirms its continued support for initiatives that encourage dialogue, coexistence and peace, and for programmes that enhance interaction between diverse communities. The Council views the humanitarian path defined by the Document on Human Fraternity as a civilizational necessity for dealing with current global challenges and for building a shared and realistic hope for the future.

With inputs from WAM