On 3 February 2026, the International Center for Interfaith and Interreligious Dialogue took part in the global Majlis “Human Fraternity” Forum held in Abu Dhabi (UAE) within the framework of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity. The Center was represented by its Chair of the Board, Gulsana Kozhabay.
The Majlis Forum was also attended by Senators of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Bibigul Zheksenbay and Darkhan Kydyrali.
The Forum brought together political and religious leaders, as well as representatives of international and humanitarian organizations, to discuss contemporary global challenges based on the values of peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and shared responsibility.
Opening the Forum, the UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, Nahayan bin Mubarak Al Nahayan, emphasized the significance of the Document on Human Fraternity and highlighted the role of women’s leadership in fostering a culture of peace. UAE Minister of State Maitha Al Hamssi noted that differences among people should serve as a source of mutual enrichment, while responsibility for peace rests with every individual.
As part of the Forum, messages from Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb and Pope Leo XIV were delivered, emphasizing that the Document on Human Fraternity continues to serve as a vital moral compass for the contemporary world, urging a shift from rhetoric to tangible action in the service of human dignity and solidarity.
Special attention was given to the theme of women’s leadership. Saida Mirziyoyeva emphasized that human fraternity is a conscious and practical choice to see every person first and foremost as an individual, and that silence in the face of injustice only amplifies its consequences.
During Session I, “Women’s Leadership as the Foundation of Human Fraternity,” with the participation of Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, Megawati Sukarnoputri, Nehmat Aoun, Verónica Alcocer, and Leyla Aliyeva, speakers highlighted that women’s leadership grounded in responsibility, empathy, and inclusivity plays a key role in strengthening social cohesion.
Session II, titled “Humanitarian Action in Practice: Leadership with Courage, Compassion, and Integrity,” was moderated by Charles Michel and focused on the practical dimensions of humanitarian work and leadership in times of crisis. Speakers included José Ramos-Horta, Kailash Satyarthi, Ghada Waly, Magdi Yacoub, and Javier Garcia.
Participants agreed that leadership is defined not by position, but by the meaning and responsibility one is willing to assume.
On the sidelines of the Forum, the Center held working meetings with its partners from across the globe to discuss prospects for further collaboration and joint initiatives.
