Beyond War and Toward Reconciliation: Multi-Religious Peace Roundtables
2024-02-19 - 2024-02-21 | Tokyo, Japan, Tokyo, Japan
Religions for Peace International and Religions for Peace Japan, with the support of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), proudly announce the convening of the second “Beyond War and Toward Reconciliation: Multi-Religious Peace Roundtables”, scheduled to take place from 19-21 February 2024, in Tokyo, Japan. Building on the success of the inaugural Roundtable in 2022, this event will bring together diverse religious and faith leaders, policymakers, and policy experts in a collaborative effort to explore innovative approaches to effective peacebuilding and discuss the impact of interfaith actions on global challenges. Click here to learn more.
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International Conference on the Dialogue of Civilizations and Tolerance
2024-02-20 - 2024-02-22 | Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Register to Attend Read the Press Release
The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) is pleased to support the International Conference on the Dialogue of Civilizations and Tolerance (“IDCT Conference”), to be held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates from the 20th to the 22nd of February 2024. The event will convene representatives of the academia, governments, multilateral organizations, and other stakeholders to jointly tackle questions at the core of the “Dialogue of Civilizations”.
The global event is organized under the patronage of H.E Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance & Coexistence of the United Arab Emirates, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tolerance & Coexistence of UAE, and with the support of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC).
More details are available on the conference website: https://www.idctconference.org/

Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2024
2024-03-01 - 2024-03-03 | Antalya, Türkiye, Antalya, Turkey
UNAOC will participate in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, which will take place on March 1-3, 2024 in Antalya, Türkiye. In its third edition, this year’s Forum has an overarching theme of “Advancing Diplomacy in Times of Turmoil”, with the aim of leading the discourse on the search for peace amid a turbulent period in human history. Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for UNAOC, is a panellist in a session entitled “Rising Racism, Xenophobia and Islamophobia”.
To learn more, visit https://antalyadf.org/en/adf-2024-en.

Intercultural Innovation Hub Capacity-building Workshop
2024-03-17 - 2024-03-23 | São Paulo, Brazil, São Paulo, Brazil
The second capacity-building workshop for the ten recipients of the current edition of the Intercultural Innovation Hub (IIH) will take place in São Paulo, Brazil from March 17th to March 22nd, 2024.
Hosted by the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and the BMW Group, and with the support of Accenture, the workshop will focus on strengthening the capacity of participating civil society organizations.
The workshop will be attended by representatives of the ten global grassroots initiatives that were recognized in May 2023 during an event held in Berlin, Germany. IIH recipients from Australia, Brazil, Colombia, Germany, Guatemala, Jordan, Indonesia, Israel, Mexico, and South Africa will participate in a series of training sessions and visits in São Paulo, Brazil.

6th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue: "Dialogue for Peace and Global Security: Cooperation and Interconnectivity"
2024-05-01 - 2024-05-03 | Baku, Azerbaijan
Governments, international organizations, scholars, and thought leaders will gather at the 6th edition of the World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue
The 6th edition of the World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, operating under the theme “Dialogue for Peace and Global Security: Cooperation and Interconnectivity,” is scheduled to convene from May 1st to May 3rd, 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan. This forum, part of the “Baku Process” initiated by President Ilham Aliyev in 2008, will be conducted in collaboration with prominent international entities such as the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), UNESCO, the UN Tourism, and the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ISESCO).
The primary objective of the 6th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue is to explore the critical intersections between dialogue facilitation, cooperative frameworks, leadership efficacy, and the complex dynamics of interconnectedness, all in the service of advancing global peace and security imperatives. Over three days, a series of plenary sessions and panel discussions will bring together a diverse array of stakeholders, including government officials, representatives from international organizations, eminent cultural figures, journalists, civil society actors, and intellectuals from across the globe, to deliberate upon pressing global challenges.
For more information: www.bakuprocess.az

Conflict mediation and peace building: strengthening the role of women
2024-07-16 - 2024-07-17 | Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Congo, Democratic Republic of the
UNAOC will support a 2-day high-level conference organized by Fundación Mujeres por África, entitled “Conflict mediation and peacebuilding: strengthening the role of women”, which will take place in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo on 16 to 17 July.
The event will bring together women mediators from the Central African Republic, Mali and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as national authorities, multilateral and civil society organizations, with the aim of addressing crucial issues relating to the role of women mediators in conflict resolution, combating violence and peacebuilding.

Working Together to Counter Antisemitism – A Global Human Rights Challenge
2024-09-04 09:30 - 12:30 (Europe/Helsinki) | Room XXII, Palais des Nations, Palais des Nations, Geneva, Switzerland
When: Wednesday, September 4, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Where: Room XXII, Palais des Nations, UN Geneva
History has shown that antisemitism is often a precursor to other forms of hate. In this context, deeply concerned by the dramatic rise in antisemitism globally and its effects on individuals, communities, and the wider society, this collaborative workshop aims to provide an opportunity for human rights experts to discuss the critical issue of antisemitism with subject matter senior experts, fostering greater understanding and collaboration among international stakeholders. Through dialogue, we seek to strengthen global efforts to identify and counter modern forms of antisemitism and build a more inclusive and respectful world.
Speakers:
Ambassador Deborah Lipstadt, U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism
H.E. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations
Dr. Felix Klein, Federal Government Commissioner for Jewish Life in Germany and the Fight Against Antisemitism
Dr. Fernando Lottenberg, OAS Commissioner to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism
Dr. h.c. Katharina von Schnurbein, EJ Coordinator on Combating Antisemitism and Fostering Jewish Life
Ambassador Michèle Taylor, U.S. Permanent Representative to the U.N. Human Rights Council

Promoting Peaceful and Inclusive Societies for Sustainable Development through Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue
2024-09-26 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Halifax) | Conference Room 12, United Nations headquarters, New York, NY, 10017, United States
Organized by the Permanent Mission of Uzbekistan and the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future.
However, the world is facing unfathomable challenges that pose threats to and undermine peace and security, sustainable development and the full enjoyment of human rights.
The Pact for the Future, to be adopted at the Summit of the Future in September 2024, features the promotion of culture and intercultural and interreligious dialogue among collective actions that can strengthen social cohesion and accelerate the achievement of a wide array of sustainable development goals.
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UNAOC Group of Friends High-level Meeting
2024-09-27 10:00 - 13:00 (America/Halifax) | Conference Room 1, UNHQ, 405 East 42nd Street, New York, NY, United States
The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) will convene a UNAOC Group of Friends high-level meeting on Friday, 27 September 2024, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM New York time, in Conference Room 1 at the United Nations headquarters, New York.
At the event, Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for UNAOC, will present the UNAOC Plan of Action for 2024-2026 and highlight key achievements and progress made by UNAOC since the last Group of Friends meeting in September 2023. Together with the host Government of Portugal, the High Representative will also outline the latest substantive preparations and expected outcomes of the 10th UNAOC Global Forum, which will be held in Cascais, Portugal, from 25 to 27 November 2024.

Informal Briefing to UNAOC Group Friends on the 10th UNAOC Global Forum
2024-10-30 15:00 - 16:30 (America/Halifax) | Conference Room 8
The Permanent Mission of Portugal to the United Nations and the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) are co-organizing an Informal Briefing on the 10th UNAOC Global Forum, which is scheduled to take place in the city of Cascais, Portugal on 25–27 November 2024.
The Informal Briefing, co-chaired by H.E. Mr. Rui Vinhas, the Permanent Representative of Portugal to the United Nations, and H.E. Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for UNAOC, will be convened in Conference Room 8 at the United Nations headquarters in New York on Wednesday, 30 October, from 3:00 pm to 4:30pm.
The latest official programme of the event, the registration procedure and attendance, protocol arrangements as well as expected outcomes of the Global Forum, will be presented at the Informal Briefing. An interactive Q&A session will be held to address queries and any pending issues.

10th UNAOC Global Forum
2024-11-25 - 2024-11-27 | Cascais, Portugal
United in Peace: Restoring Trust, Reshaping the Future
Reflecting on Two Decades of Dialogue for Humanity

The 10th UNAOC Global Forum in Cascais, Portugal will convene members of the UNAOC Group of Friends, political leaders, representatives of international and regional organizations, religious leaders and faith actors, the private sector, civil society, academia, youth, arts and media, as well as donor agencies and foundations, who will address the global issues pertinent to peace and security and call for restoring trust and for uniting in peace. In Cascais, participants will have an opportunity to reflect on the twenty years of the ‘Alliance of Civilizations’ initiative, announced by Spain at the 59th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2004, and how UNAOC grew into a vibrant and well-established United Nations entity. The event will be an occasion to highlight and celebrate UNAOC achievements and map the blueprint for “One Humanity” in the years to come.
Visit this space for more updates.

3rd UNAOC Dialogue on "AI for #OneHumanity: Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence"
2025-04-22 14:30 - 2025-04-23 14:00 (Europe/Helsinki) | Room XX, Human Rights and Alliance of Civilizations Room, Palais des Nations, Geneva, Switzerland
Watch Live Programme Concept Note Media Advisory
The 3rd UNAOC Dialogue on “AI for #OneHumanity: Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence” will take place on 22–23 April 2025 at Room XX (Human Rights and Alliance of Civilizations room) of the Palais des Nations in Geneva.
Following the success of its first two iterations in 2022 and 2024, respectively, the third “AI for #OneHumanity” will convene key stakeholders — including governments, international organizations, private sector leaders, innovators, and representatives from academia, media, and civil society — to foster collaboration, share insights, and explore strategies to ensure the responsible and inclusive development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the service of humanity.
Organized by UNAOC in collaboration with Onuart Foundation, the two-day gathering will feature thematic discussions focused on the role of AI in fostering dialogue, advancing sustainable development, and shaping pathways for collective human progress, while also addressing critical challenges such as cultural and religious bias, governance, and equitable access. Through these discussions, UNAOC aims to amplify diverse perspectives and strengthen multi-stakeholder collaboration to ensure that Artificial Intelligence serves as a unifying, rather than divisive, force.

Launch of “A Call for Peace, the End of Wars and Respect for International Law” (“Un Grito por la Paz, el Fin de las Guerras y el Respeto a la Legalidad Internacional”)
2025-04-25 - 2025-04-26 | Gernika, Spain
The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and Religions for Peace are co-organizing the launch of “A Call for Peace, the End of Wars and Respect for International Law”, an initiative that aims to amplify a condemnation against war while fostering a message of peace and upholding respect for international law.

The launch will take place in the symbolic and historic town of Gernika in Basque Country, Spain, on the 88th anniversary of its bombing. The event will feature the participation of high-level officials, religious leaders, renowned figures from academia, civil society, and the media, as well as other key stakeholders committed to the cause of peace. The programme will also include cultural performances and a solemn tribute to the victims of the Gernika bombing.
Learn More Click to RSVP

Watch Live / Síguelo en Directo
Programme (English)Programa (Español) 25 April 2025, Liceo Theatre, Gernika, Spain

09:30–10:30
Roundtable 1: Interfaith Dialogue: The Role of Religious Leaders and Faith Actors in Fostering the Call for Peace, Mutual Respect and Understanding

10:30–11:30
Roundtable 2: From Grassroots Actions to Global Impact: Civil Society as a Catalyst for Sustainable Peace

11:30–12:30
Roundtable 3: Women at the Forefront: the Missing Piece in Advancing Peace and Security through Inclusion

16:00–18:00
Roundtable 4: “Youth Voices for Peace: Empowering a Generation of Changemakers”

18:30–19:00
Discussion and screening of “Why War”, a film by Amos Gitai

26 April 2025, Fronton Jai-Alai, Gernika, Spain

9:30–10:15
Welcoming all guests and family photo

10:30–11:30
Official Opening Ceremony
– Gernika Peace and Reconciliation Awards Ceremony

11:30–11:4:
Musical Interlude: performance of the Basque band ‘Pause’ and the Basque Soprano Jone Martínez

11:45–13:00
Official Launch of “A Call for Peace, the End of Wars and Respect for International Law”

13:00–13:15
Cultural Performance: Soprano recital and traditional Basque dance

16:30–17:30
A tribute to the victims and floral offering (Gernika Cemetery)

25 abril 2025, Teatro Liceo, Gernika, Spain

09:30–10:30
Mesa redonda con líderes religiosos

10:30–11:30
Mesa Redonda 1: Diálogo Interreligioso: El Papel de los Líderes y Actores Religiosos en la Promoción de un Grito por la Paz, el Respeto y Entendimiento Mutuos

11:30–12:30
Mesa Redonda 3: Mujeres al Frente: la Pieza que Falta en el Avance de la Paz y la Seguridad a Través de la Inclusión

16:00–18:00
Mesa redonda 4: “Voces Jóvenes por la Paz: Empoderando a una Generación de Agentes de Cambio”

18:30–19:00
Debate y proyección de “Why War”, película de Amos Gitai

26 abril 2025, Fronton Jai-Alai, Gernika, Spain

9:30–10:15
Recepción de invitados y foto de familia

10:30–11:30
Ceremonia de Apertura Oficial
– Acto de Entrega de los Premios Gernika Paz y Reconciliación

11:30–11:45
Interludio musical a cargo del grupo vasco ‘Pause’ y recital de la Soprano vasca Jone Martínez

11:45–13:00
Presentación Oficial de “Un Grito por la Paz, el Fin de las Guerras y el Respeto a la Legalidad Internacional”

13:00–13:15
Actuación cultural: recital de la Soprano vasca Jone Martínez y baile tradicional vasco: “Aurresku”

16:30–17:30
Homenaje a las víctimas y ofrenda floral (Cementerio de Gernika)

Links
Download the Concept Note (English)
Descarga la Nota Conceptual (Español)
Read the Press Release

Concept Note (English)Nota Conceptual (Español) Download (PDF, 3.36MB)

Download (PDF, 3.39MB)

Countering Extremism and Radical Ideologies: A multi-stakeholder approach
2025-04-29 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Halifax) | Conference Room 6, UN Headquarters, United Nations Headquarters, New York, United States
This event will bring together representatives of the United Nations system and faith-based organizations, with the Egyptian-US Dialogue Initiative Delegation in a round-table discussion on countering extremism and radical ideologies, including sharing good practices in building trust and understanding through dialogue, countering hate speech, xenophobia and the protection of human rights.
The Egyptian-US Dialogue Initiative was launched in October 2014. It seeks to build bridges of common interests at cultural, social and religious levels between Egypt and the United States. The Initiative includes representatives from the Coptic Evangelical Organization for Social Services (CEOSS), a leading civil society and development NGO in Egypt, along with US partners, including major US church denominations—the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the Presbyterian Church (USA), and the United Church of Christ—and ecumenical organizations the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA, and Churches for Middle East Peace, as well as HANDS Along the Nile Development Services.

Thematic Dialogue on “Promoting Dialogue Among Civilizations, Strengthening Global Solidarity and Cooperation”
2025-06-09 16:00 - 17:30 (America/Halifax) | Conference Room 2, United Nations Headquarters, United Nations, New York, 10017, United States
To commemorate the first International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations, UNAOC is co-organizing a Thematic Dialogue on “Promoting Dialogue Among Civilizations, Strengthening Global Solidarity and Cooperation” with the Permanent Missions of China, Egypt, Peru, Spain, Uzbekistan to the United Nations on Monday, 9th of June, in Conference Room 2, United Nations headquarters, New York.

Click Here to Download the Programme

Anna Lindh Foundation Forum 2025
2025-06-18 - 2025-06-20 | Tirana, Albania, Tirana, Albania
UNAOC is an institutional partner at the Anna Lindh Foundation Forum (ALForum 2025), to be held in Tirana, Albania on 18–20 June 2025. The Forum will bring together approximately 1,000 participants, including civil society representative, academic entities, young leaders, media outlets, influential figures, governments and institutions representatives, policymakers and other relevant stakeholders from 43 countries to transform the Euro-Mediterranean region. Learn more

ALForum 2025 Plenary Session: “Bridging Cultures and Religions in the Euro-Mediterranean Region: Reflecting on the UNAOC Two Decades of Dialogue for Humanity”
19 June, 9:00 AM, National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania
UNAOC is organizing a plenary session titled “Bridging Cultures and Religions in the Euro-Mediterranean Region: Reflecting on the UNAOC Two Decades of Dialogue for Humanity” at the Anna Lindh Foundation Forum.
Speakers:
H.E. Mr. Miguel Angel Moratinos, Under-Secretary-General, High Representative for UNAOC and United Nations Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia
H.E. Mr. George Andreas Papandreou, former Prime Minister of Greece (2009-2011)
H.E. Mr. Mladen Ivanic, former Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina (2014-2015; 2016-2017)
H.E. Mr. Egeman Bağış, former Minister for European Union Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye
Prof. Michele Capasso, President of Fondazione Mediterraneo, Architect and Engineer
Moderator: Ms. Nihal Saad, UNAOC Director

Rationale:
In September 2004, in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks in New York and terrorist attacks that followed in Bali, Madrid, London and İstanbul, the Government of Spain put forth a proposal to launch the ‘Alliance of Civilizations’ initiative to bring the international community together and build bridges between societies, promote dialogue and understanding across nations, cultures and religions. Promoting interreligious and intercultural dialogue was identified as an essential tool in achieving peace and greater understanding and respect among civilizations, cultures, religions and beliefs. Co-sponsored by the Government of Türkiye, the initiative was formally announced and launched by the United Nations Secretary-General a year later.
Today, UNAOC serves as an inclusive multi-stakeholder United Nations platform for advancing the culture of peace and promoting interreligious and intercultural dialogue for peace and mutual respect. The United Nations Member States reaffirmed their support of UNAOC and its role in promoting dialogue as a soft power tool to prevent conflicts in General Assembly resolutions 64/14 of 22 December 2009 and 69/312 of 6 July 2015. Inspired by the values and principles of UNAOC, several Governments developed and launched their national plans and strategies, identifying and implementing a series of actions to prevent tensions and promote interfaith harmony, improve interethnic relations and foster social cohesion. In November 2010, the UNAOC Regional Strategy for the Mediterranean was adopted by Member States in La Valetta, Malta. Leadership of the region extended political will and determination to build bridges in order to promote dialogue and understanding among peoples, cultures, religions and beliefs, and foster a culture of peace in the Mediterranean region; and to reinforce trust, tolerance and respect for diversity through cooperation, partnership and inclusion. Combatting racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, including discrimination against persons based on their religion or belief and incitement to hate, were among the key focuses of activities implemented under the umbrella of the Regional Strategy.
In the framework of the Regional Strategy for the Mediterranean, UNAOC and its partners, including the European Commission, the League of Arab States and the Anna Lindh Euro-Mediterranean Foundation, offered an array of trainings and workshops for journalists reporting across the Mediterranean region. UNAOC implemented a series of Summer Schools and annual editions of the Fellowship Programme, convening young people from across a wide spectrum of cultural, religious and ethnic backgrounds to nurture collaboration and mutual respect, and to break down preconceived stereotypes and biases towards ‘the other’. Under its Youth Solidarity Fund and Young Peacebuilders programmes, UNAOC supported young people’s peacebuilding activities, provided mentorship opportunities and strengthened local organizations to promote peace and social cohesion through interreligious and intercultural dialogue.
The Plenary Session will be held at a critical juncture in global peace and security, which is marked by multiple conflicts and crises that contain identity-based components, exacerbate divisions and erode trust. The Euro-Mediterranean basin harbours over 40 countries with different histories and cultures, and its geographic and geopolitical perspectives are diverse and enrich one another. Strengthening regional unity and cherishing cultural and religious diversity must be the agenda ahead of current and future generations of political leaders in the region.
The Plenary Session will examine the current dynamics in the Euro-Mediterranean, exploring opportunities for stronger regional cooperation, grounded on the values of trust and unity. It will highlight the impact of flagship activities of UNAOC in the Euro-Mediterranean that addressed the root causes of conflicts and promoted peace and social cohesion through interreligious and intercultural dialogue. It will also explore the means through which the United Nations could meet the aspirations of the Euro-Mediterranean region and around the globe, for more resilient, more connected and more dynamic societies.
Held in Tirana, the Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue 2025, the Plenary Session will be an occasion to celebrate the Mediterranean’s cultural richness and history of the interreligious dialogue in Albania. Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, H.E. Mr. Edi Rama, Albania navigates through a historical reconciliation process and fosters its cooperation between the European Union and Western Balkan countries. Cultural and religious harmony, which modern Albania enjoys today, holds particular significance in the current global landscape against the backdrop of growing Islamophobia, antisemitism and other forms of religious intolerance.
Format:

Opening Remarks: Brief introduction to outline objectives and introduce topics and speakers.
Panel Discussion: Structured dialogue among speakers.
Interactive Q&A: Audience engagement with the speakers through moderated discussion.
Conclusion: Summary of discussions, highlighting key insights and recommendations.

51st Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers, Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)
2025-06-21 - 2025-06-22 | Istanbul, Türkiye, Istanbul, Turkey
Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations and United Nations Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia, will participate in the 51st Session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers, which is convened under the theme, “The Organization of Islamic Cooperation in a Transforming World”. He will deliver remarks during the Opening Session on 21 June 2025, and take part in high-level discussions on issues of peace, security, and the promotion of mutual dialogue and understanding.

Special Session on Safeguarding Religious Sites: Reflections and a Call for Action by the Leaders of World and Traditional Religions and State Actors
2025-09-16 | Astana, Kazakhstan, Astana, Kazakhstan
In the framework of the VIII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, taking place on 17-18 September 2025 in Astana, and building on the longstanding partnership between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), the Congress Secretariat and UNAOC will jointly convene a “Special Session on Safeguarding Religious Sites: Reflections and a Call for Action by the Leaders of World and Traditional Religions and State Actors” on 16 September 2025.
The Special Session aims to highlight national and international best practices for the protection of religious sites and underscore the role of religious leaders in the protection of religious and ethnic minorities from the scourge of rising intolerance. Convened at a critical time marked by escalating conflicts, attacks on places of worship and religious sites, as well as a surge in discrimination and violence based on religion or belief, the Special Session will provide a timely opportunity for government representatives, religious leaders and faith-based organizations to elaborate on practical recommendations and points of action addressed to all concerned stakeholders, the media and the public at large.
Deliberations, recommendations and key points will be fed into the VIII Congress, while UNAOC will issue a separate report as part of the implementation of the United Nations Plan of Action to Safeguard Religious Sites: In Unity and Solidarity for Safe and Peaceful Worship.

OIC High-Level Segment on the Promotion of the Culture of Peace and Tolerance
2025-09-22 15:00 - 18:00 (America/Halifax) | UNHQ Conference Room 4, United Nations Headquarters, New York, NY, 10017, United States
OIC High-Level Segment on the Promotion of the Culture of Peace and Tolerance:
In Commemoration of the 1500th Anniversary of the Birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Monday, 22 September 2025, 3:00 to 6:00 PM, CR 4, UNHQ, New York
Pursuant to OIC Resolution 15/51-C, adopted at the Fifty-First Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers in Istanbul on 21–22 June 2025, and in line with operative paragraph 5 requesting a high-level commemorative event during the United Nations General Assembly’s High-Level Week, the OIC will convene, for the first time, an international event dedicated to the life and legacy of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon Him, his family, and his companions). The event will be held on 22 September 2025 at United Nations Headquarters in New York.

Keeping Faith in Dialogue: Reimagining Interreligious Cooperation for a New Agenda for Peace
2025-09-25 15:15 - 16:45 (America/Halifax) | Bahá’i International Community, 866 UN Plaza, New York, NY, United States
The International Dialogue Centre (KAICIID) and the Multi-Faith Advisory Council to the UN Inter-Agency Taskforce on Religion and Sustainable Development (MFAC) in cooperation with the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, Religions for Peace, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Office of the United Nations Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide (OSAPG), and co-sponsored by the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Austria to the United Nations in New York, the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the UN in New York, and the Permanent Mission of the Portuguese Republic to the UN in New York, will convene a high-level event on the margins of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80), focused on the role of interreligious and multistakeholder alliances in advancing global stability and resilience.

UNAOC Group of Friends High-Level Meeting
2025-09-26 13:15 - 14:30 (America/Halifax) | ECOSOC Chamber, United Nations Headquarters, United Nations, New York, NY, United States
On the margins of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) will convene the annual high-level meeting of the UNAOC Group of Friends on Friday, 26 September 2025, from 1:15 to 2:30 PM New York time, at the ECOSOC Chamber of the United Nations headquarters in New York.
The High Representative, Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, will present a brief overview of UNAOC activities in 2025, preceded by a video, marking the 20th anniversary of the formal launch of the Alliance by the United Nations Secretary-General. A general discussion will follow with interventions from the UNAOC Group of Friends, which currently comprises 161 members, including 131 UN Member States, 1 non-member state, and 29 international organizations.

A Call for Peace, the End of Wars and Respect for International Law — Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
2025-10-16 - 2025-10-18 | Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
A joint initiative of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and Religions for Peace (RfP), in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the City of Sarajevo, the Interreligious Council of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and with the support of the Office of the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Background
Throughout history, humanity has faced numerous cycles of confrontations, wars, and conflicts, leaving a painful legacy of violence. Despite the efforts of such visionaries as Emmanuel Kant and Victor Hugo, who advocated for peace in the 18th and 19th centuries, conflicts have persisted, culminating in catastrophic events such as World Wars I and II, which claimed millions of lives and shattered entire societies.
The aftermath of these horrors led to the establishment of the United Nations (UN) in 1945, with the primary aim of promoting global peace and security. However, in recent decades, humanity has witnessed an alarming setback with the resurgence of unresolved conflicts and the emergence of new tensions around the world. Moreover, a growing culture of militarization overpowered the culture of peace. The growing despair of citizens across the globe in the face of these tragedies have intensified, highlighting the urgent need for a profound paradigm shift towards peace.
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The Initiative: A Call for Peace, the End of Wars and Respect for International Law
In response to this global crisis, the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) proposed the creation of an “Alliance for Peace,” during its 9th Global Forum in Fez, Morocco, which was then reaffirmed at its 10th Global Forum in Cascais, Portugal, in November 2024.
In this context, UNAOC and Religions for Peace have jointly committed to co-organizing the launch of “A Call for Peace, the End of Wars and Respect for International Law” — aiming to amplify their condemnation against war while fostering a message of peace and upholding respect for international law. A symbolic launch of the initiative took place in Gernika, Spain, in April 2025, on the 88th anniversary of its bombing. The initiative will continue with a series of major events in historically bombed cities highlighting the devastating consequences of war.
The two-day Gernika gathering featured interactive discussions and poignant interventions from political leaders, government officials, religious leaders, youth advocates, civil society representatives, and various stakeholders—all championing the cause of peace.
Sarajevo: A City’s Resilience as a Call for Global Action
Sarajevo embodies the profound intersection of history, resilience, multicultural harmony and reconciliation. Marked by its role in the outbreak of World War I and the trauma of its 1990s siege, the longest in modern European history through the 20th century, the city carries a unique legacy that powerfully illustrates both the immense human cost of war and the enduring hope for peace.
The city of Sarajevo holds a unique and poignant place in world history. In June 1914, the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo ignited a chain of events that led to the outbreak of World War I—a devastating global conflict claimed millions of lives and left deep scars on the international community.
A century later, Sarajevo was again thrust into the global spotlight during the Bosnian War of the 1990s, enduring the longest siege of a capital city in modern warfare. The city became a symbol of resilience and unyielding human dignity in the face of suffering.
Against this historical context, Sarajevo stands today as a living reminder of the need and urgency behind the initiative “A Call for Peace, the End of Wars, and Respect for International Law.”
Sarajevo’s identity as a city at the crossroads of civilizations is deeply embedded in its diverse urban fabric and rich cultural heritage. For centuries, it has served as a meeting point between East and West. Furthermore, the convergence of Catholic, Jewish, Islamic and Christian Orthodox traditions within a single urban space has fostered a unique spirit of dialogue and mutual respect. Its multiethnic and interfaith character, coupled with its ongoing reconciliation efforts, offers a powerful platform for advancing global dialogue on peacebuilding, inclusion, and the rule of law. It is a city that speaks with authority about both the costs of division and the power of unity and diversity.
This landmark event is the second iteration of the initiative “Call for Peace, End of Wars and Respect for International Law ”, launched in April 2025 in Gernika, Spain—a city, like Sarajevo, whose name is synonymous with civilian suffering caused by war. As in Gernika, the Sarajevo gathering seeks to draw historical parallels to modern-day conflicts and to amplify global voices calling for peace, unity, and justice. This chapter of the initiative is organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the City of Sarajevo, the Interreligious Council of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and with the support of the Office of the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Format:
The gathering will feature dynamic dialogues and powerful contributions from political leaders, government officials, religious figures, youth advocates, civil society actors, and other key stakeholders, all united in advancing the global agenda for peace.
16 October:
Welcome Reception (by invitation only)
Venue: Olympic Museum
17 October: Interactive Roundtables
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Interactive Roundtable: Faith in Action: Religious Leaders and Faith Actors as Partners in Fostering Peace, Rebuilding Trust and Promoting Mutual Understanding
Venue: Gazi Husrev-beg’s Library
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Interactive Roundtable: Young People Paving the Way for Peace: from Words to Action
Venue: Bošnjački institut
3:00 PM – 4:15 PM: Interactive Roundtable: Women Shaping a Future of Peace: Bridging Gaps in Global Challenges
Venue: Venue: Bošnjački institut
4:30 PM – 5:45 PM: Agents of Peace: Civil Society Driving Transformative Change from the Ground Up
7:30 – 9:30 PM: Concert and Dinner (by invitation only).
Venue: The Army Hall
18 October:
12:00 – 2:00 PM: Main Ceremony: A Call for Peace, the End of Wars and Respect for International Law
Venue: Sarajevo City Hall – Vijećnica
Provisional Programme

An Urgent Call to Action
“A Call for Peace, the End of Wars, and Respect for International Law” is an urgent call for humanity to put an end to the vicious cycle of violence and destruction that has pervaded in recent history. By uniting global stakeholders and engaging communities most affected by conflict, this initiative aims to amplify the pursuit of a peaceful future for the next generations. Through diplomacy, collaboration, and dialogue, it envisions a world where peace prevails over war.

Objectives:

Raise global awareness: Emphasize the urgency of ending wars and violent conflicts while upholding international law.
Mobilize Stakeholders: Engage religious actors, civil society, governments, international organizations, and key stakeholders to promote peaceful solutions to international conflicts.
Counter Militarization: Establish a united front against the influence of the military lobby, advocating for a “peace lobby” that promotes the peaceful resolution of conflicts.
Promote the role of women, youth, and sports: Highlight their essential role in the prevention and resolution of conflicts.
Strengthen international commitments and reaffirm the United Nations’ role in fostering and building peace.
Change the global narrative: Foster a shift in the global narrative around violence and militarization, promoting peace as a tool for development, stability, and human well-being

11th UNAOC Global Forum in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
2025-12-14 - 2025-12-15 | Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
