From Wahat Al Karama: 6th GNRC Forum Concludes with the Launch of the “Abu Dhabi Call”
The 6th Global Network of Religions for Children (GNRC) Forum, hosted by the Interfaith Alliance for Safer Communities, concluded in Abu Dhabi with the release of the Abu Dhabi Call. This global declaration brought together international religious leaders, thinkers, and specialists over three days of in-depth dialogues. The discussions aimed to unify perspectives, address challenges, and enhance the role of religious leaders in protecting children worldwide.
The Abu Dhabi Call, launched at Wahat Al Karama, underscored a shared commitment to ensuring every child’s right to safety and dignity. It calls for immediate and unified action across religions, governments, and civil society, proposing an actionable plan focusing on interfaith dialogue, mental health support, comprehensive policies, and eliminating harmful practices.
Signatories pledged to amplify children’s voices, safeguard their dignity, and work compassionately toward a sustainable future. The declaration was formulated in consultation with over 100 leaders from faith-based organizations, international bodies, and NGOs.
The declaration ceremony was attended by high-profile figures, including His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Bayyah, Chairman of the UAE Fatwa Council; Rev. Keishi Miyamoto, President of Arigatou International and Convenor of the GNRC His Excellency Kul Gautam, Chair of the GNRC International Organizing Committee; Her Excellency Dana Hamid, CEO of the Interfaith Alliance for Safer Communities; His Excellency Dr. Mustafa Ali, Secretary General of the GNRC; and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Kailash Satyarthi. Children from around the world also participated, emphasizing the global impact of the forum.
N his speech at the closing ceremony, His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Bayyah said that protecting children is a permanent priority at all times, because it is one of those topics that touches on humans (the individual and the family) in the closest and dearest people to them, which are children. On the other hand, it touches on and concerns society and the state as a whole because it is concerned with the future in all its meanings. Moreover, child protection initiatives become more necessary and more urgent in areas witnessing armed conflicts and wars, which expose children to major dangers that threaten their lives and tear their entity apart. These areas should be given priority in all projects directed at children. He added that the Islamic religion has taken care of children by raising their bodies and minds, developing their talents and caring for all their conditions. The prophetic teachings regarding children were a reference for scholars in classifying books and allocating many items. He praised the UAE’s care for orphans and humanitarian stances to help children, especially in countries witnessing conflicts, which is in line with tolerant religious values and teachings. It is the first Arab country to join the Global Partnership to End Violence against Children. In this regard, we also commend the great efforts made by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Mother of the Emirates, to care for children .
High-Level Discussions Address Child Protection Challenges
Organized by Arigatou International and the Alliance of Religions for Safer Communities, the forum explored critical issues such as hunger, poverty, abuse, exploitation, and human trafficking. Other topics included mental health in the face of global crises, child dignity in the digital age, and addressing extremism, hate crimes, and xenophobia.
Participants included UN officials, international agencies, senior religious leaders, and children’s rights experts. Discussions focused on collaborative strategies to combat these challenges, underscoring the role of religious leaders, civil society, law enforcement, and policymakers.
Delegations Explore Emirati Culture
In addition to participating in the forum, international delegates and children visited cultural, historical, and tourist sites in the UAE. These programs highlighted the country’s values of tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and respect for others, reflecting the essence of Emirati society.
The event emphasized the UAE’s commitment to building a safer and brighter future for children worldwide.