The 3rd World Interfaith Harmony Week Forum in Addis Ababa
By Bezawit Assefa
The spirit of the “Golden Rule: Treat others as you would like to be treated” and the African philosophy of “ubuntu” brought together diverse religious communities for the 3rd World Interfaith Harmony Week, recently held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This important forum aimed to foster unity and collaboration among various faith groups, aligning its mission with broader global initiatives for peace and justice. Notably, the event coincided with the African Union’s recent inclusion as a member of the G20, underscoring the relevance of faith in global discussions.
A Gathering for Sustainable Development
Convened at the Hilton International Hotel, the high-level interfaith forum unfolded under the theme: “Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, the African Union Agenda 2063, and South Africa’s 2025 G20 Summit.” The event was organized through a collaborative effort by key institutions, including the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia, the African Union, and the United Religions Initiative. Together, they emphasized the role of faith in driving sustainable and inclusive development across the continent.
Distinguished guests included Ethiopia’s President Taye Atske Selassie, Chairperson of the African Union Commission H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and Bishop Tesfasellassie Medhin of Adigrat. The forum attracted numerous faith leaders who came together to tackle pressing global and regional issues.
A Platform for Living Peace
President Taye Atske Selassie articulated the conference’s significant contribution to justice and peace in Africa. He highlighted the Golden Rule as a guiding principle for fostering unity and mutual respect among different faith communities. His hopes were that the resolutions emerging from this conference would enrich Ethiopia’s national dialogue, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the country’s challenges.
Key topics addressed during the forum ranged from the contributions of faith communities to the G20 agenda in Africa to critical issues such as climate justice, women’s leadership, human trafficking, and interfaith cooperation for peacebuilding. Discussions also tackled fundamental concerns about freedom of religion, human dignity, and the fight against hate speech, xenophobia, and corruption.
Bishop Medhin noted that religious leaders hold a unique position in the peacebuilding process due to their ongoing engagement with their communities. Their proximity to the challenges faced by ordinary people places them in a pivotal role to lead initiatives that can effect real change.
Strong Catholic Participation
The Catholic presence was particularly robust at the forum, with numerous priests, religious sisters, and Catholic leaders actively participating in discussions. Their contributions spanned a range of pressing issues, including peacebuilding, climate justice, religious freedom, and the fight against human trafficking. These discussions echoed fundamental Catholic social teachings and illustrated the Church’s commitment to social justice.
The conference also aligned with significant Catholic milestones, such as the Jubilee Year themed “Pilgrims of Hope” and the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of Vatican II. These events reaffirmed the Church’s mission in navigating the complexities of the modern world and emphasized the importance of unity among all people of faith.
The Legacy of Pope Francis
The teachings of the late Pope Francis were a cornerstone of the discussions, particularly his third encyclical, Fratelli tutti, which advocates for interfaith cooperation and universal fraternity. In an era marked by division and uncertainty, the forum highlighted how interfaith collaboration can shape Africa’s role on the global stage. By promoting inclusive progress based on shared moral and spiritual values, these discussions sought to cultivate a more harmonious world.
Attendees frequently referred to the “Golden Rule” as a foundational guideline for peaceful coexistence. This principle transcends religious boundaries, representing a shared human value that resonates across faiths. By invoking it, participants aimed to foster understanding and dialogue among diverse communities.
The forum concluded with a moment of silence in remembrance of Pope Francis, honoring him as a bridge-builder between faiths and a staunch advocate for the poor, the marginalized, and the planet. This tribute underscored the essential role of spiritual leaders in nurturing peace and unity in an increasingly polarized world.
