Abu dhabi: The Muslim Council of Elders, under the leadership of His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, has emphasized the importance of intellectual prevention and the promotion of enlightened awareness as essential tools in combating extremism, racism, terrorism, and Islamophobia.
According to Emirates News Agency, the statement from the Council was issued on the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism, observed annually on 12th February. The Council highlighted that violent extremism and hate speech are global issues, not limited to any specific religion or culture. It stressed the need to strengthen citizenship values, encourage dialogue, respect diversity, and promote religious awareness, particularly among youth, who are often targeted by extremist groups.
Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb reiterated that the teachings of Islam, like those of other divine religions, aim to foster well-being and dignity for humanity, not to be used as tools for hatred, violence, or terrorism. He urged for collective efforts to advance dialogue, tolerance, coexistence, and peace among all people, regardless of their religious, cultural, or ethnic backgrounds, as the most effective means of protecting societies and human dignity.
The Muslim Council of Elders has been actively working to dismantle extremist ideologies and correct misconceptions. Their initiatives include seven rounds of East-West dialogue, over fifteen international peace convoys reaching communities worldwide, and the Emerging Peacemakers Forum, which empowers youth to promote peace and coexistence. These initiatives led to the signing of the historic Document on Human Fraternity in Abu Dhabi in 2019 by the Grand Imam Ahmed Al-Tayeb and the late Pope Francis, former Pope of the Catholic Church.
