In his address at G-20 Inter-faith Forum 2021, in Italy, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), called for restoring the universal human values, which must prevail over all ideologies that still divide peoples. He also stressed the need to prepare the next generations for the future to become thinkers and creators, who would contribute to the culture of peace.

During the session on “Education and Religious Diversity,” held on Monday, September 13, 2021, which brought together many Arab and European officials and ministers, Dr. AlMalik explained that ICESCO’s new vision goes beyond the idea that peace is the absence of war or its opposite.

“The Organization prides itself on a uniquely multisectoral and holistic approach to tackle issues of peace within the realms of education, economic, cultural, environmental, social dimensions, including the integration of the values ​​of affection and compassion in the educational curricula of ICESCO Member States. ICESCO’s International Conference on the Civilizational Values ​​in the Prophet’s Seerah held on May 27, 2021, called on the United Nations to declare April 21^st as the World Day of Mercy” The DG added.

ICESCO DG stressed the importance of peace institutions and bodies around the world, which provide the necessary mechanisms to prevent conflict that may results in war as these institutions are one of the key milestones in human history to establish peace and prevent wars.

Dr. AlMalik also reaffirmed that ICESCO is willing to work jointly to achieve world peace through the power of education and religious and cultural diversity. “The Organization has launched ambitious programs aimed at promoting peace by mobilizing youth, women and religious leaders through its pioneering program to train youth on leadership for peace and security and through its Regional Center for Education for Peace and Security, established in 2008, as an embodiment of its strong commitment to promoting the culture of peace,” he underscored.

At the close of his address, ICESCO DG called on leaders and officials to instill the spirit of solidarity, understanding, and tolerance in their societies, noting that this pursuit encouraged ICESCO to launch its initiative “The Societies We Want”, which aims to build peaceful, inclusive, prosperous, resilient and sustainable societies to prevent mistrust and hatred, which is the essence of Makkah Declaration that emphasizes the importance of common human values ​​and morals, and mutual respect.