Geneva: Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Jarwan, President of the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace, participated in a consultative meeting focused on local solutions for peaceful coexistence. The event, organized by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), took place at the Palais des Nations in Geneva as part of Geneva Peace Week.
According to Emirates News Agency, Al Jarwan, in his address, emphasized that genuine peace must originate within local communities, rather than solely through international efforts. He highlighted the role of schools, homes, youth initiatives, and community leadership in nurturing the ability to manage differences with respect and understanding. The Global Council for Tolerance and Peace, he noted, operates in over 100 countries through partnerships with parliaments, universities, and cultural institutions to promote values of tolerance and coexistence.
Al Jarwan further addressed ongoing humanitarian challenges in conflict zones, drawing attention to the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and other parts of the world despite the cessation of hostilities. He stressed the moral and humanitarian responsibility of the international community to safeguard human dignity and restore hope.
He also underscored that true peace is rooted in education that instills respect, leadership that opts for dialogue over division, and societies that view diversity as a source of strength. Al Jarwan expressed the council's readiness to collaborate closely with the UNHCR and other international partners to enhance efforts in protecting refugees, empowering local communities, and fostering a culture of peace beyond borders and religions.