The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) actively participated in the International Inter-Faith Conference on Tolerance, Citizenship, and Peace, held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia between November 4 and 5, 2024. This impactful conference concluded with the adoption of the Addis Ababa Declaration on Tolerance, Citizenship, and Peace a powerful commitment to advancing peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and inclusive citizenship across diverse communities.

This significant gathering brought together religious leaders, policymakers, and scholars to foster a shared commitment to tolerance, peace, and unity. A powerful declaration promoting these values was made, underscoring the critical role of interfaith collaboration in addressing global challenges.

Participants engaged in in-depth discussions on building resilient communities and promoting social cohesion by embracing diversity and mutual respect. The conference served as a platform for faith leaders and representatives from various regions and religions to share experiences, explore common concerns, and align efforts toward peacebuilding.

The declaration reinforces global efforts to promote understanding among different faiths and cultures, encouraging policies and practices that uphold human dignity, protect rights, and foster unity. Leaders and representatives from various religious and cultural backgrounds engaged in meaningful dialogue, sharing strategies to counter intolerance and address social divides.

The summit was convened by the Ethiopian Ministry of Peace and the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia, in collaboration with the Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities (MBZUH). This year’s theme focused on advancing interfaith dialogue to spread the universal values of tolerance, responsible citizenship, and lasting peace across societies.

IRCU’s participation underscores Uganda’s commitment to these shared values and its ongoing efforts to strengthen interfaith collaboration for a more peaceful and inclusive society.