The UAE: a model of human fraternity

On this International Day of Human Fraternity, we are reminded of the importance of extending the hand of friendship in celebration of humankind’s unity and diversity irrespective of religious, racial or cultural backgrounds.

Since its annual inclusion as a special day on the United Nations calendar, this celebration has raised awareness and inspired the public’s attention by renewing calls for tolerance and acceptance of others, as well as for the coexistence in harmony of all peoples.

The International Day of Human Fraternity is the culmination of longstanding efforts by the United Arab Emirates towards building a more peaceful world, following the Day’s official adoption by the United Nations General Assembly (UNSG) on Dec. 21, 2020.

It should come as no surprise that a clarion call in support of tolerance and human fraternity would originate from the UAE. The Arabian Gulf nation, renowned the world over as a home for people from all walks of life, has established itself as an advocate for peace, respect and inclusion.

Today, millions of people from all corners of the Earth happily choose the UAE as their preferred country for living, working and visiting; supported by the country’s constitution which guarantees freedom to exercise worship and enshrines religious pluralism. The UAE government is consistently demonstrating and reinforcing a commitment to inclusion.

This was most evident on Feb. 4, 2019, when His Eminence Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmed Al-Tayeb and His Holiness Pope Francis, two of the most prominent figures from the world’s largest religions, Islam and Christianity, came together to sign the groundbreaking Document on Human Fraternity in Abu Dhabi. After the proclamation of the International Day of Human Fraternity, the UAE's efforts to consolidate the values of human fraternity have continued.

At the forefront of these efforts was the setting up of the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity (HCHF) on Aug. 15, 2019. Comprising a distinguished and diverse group of religious, cultural and educational leaders, the HCHF works diligently to advance of the principles and values of human fraternity across the globe.

In order to achieve this objective, the HCHF oversees several key initiatives and programs. This forward momentum is most evident in the UAE-built Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi. Built as a physical manifestation of peaceful interreligious coexistence, this unique interfaith complex is the first space in human history that houses a synagogue, church and mosque.

The compound also hosts a cultural center with the objective of encouraging people to exemplify human fraternity through the fostering of dialogue, awareness and shared knowledge. Furthermore, to recognize the endeavors of those who work steadfastly toward encouraging the values of human fraternity, the UAE instituted the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity.

The annual award honors individuals, organizations and other entities that have made profound contributions toward human fraternity around the world. Since its founding in February 2019, the award has been received by a number of prominent global figures including Imam Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Pope Francis, and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

In 2024, in a world afflicted by discord and conflict, the need for guidance and adherence to the values of human fraternity remains more important than ever. As a model of tolerance and coexistence, the UAE stands as a beacon of hope, consistently contributing to the promotion of harmony between all people regardless of their faith and cherishing a commitment towards peace.