OPINION: The UAE's vision for world peace at Davos Forum

His Excellency called on the world for a civilizational contract that guarantees security, stability, developmental and economic prosperity for all, highlighting in this regard the outstanding success of the UAE’s hosting of the World Climate Summit COP28.

These statements come as part of the Abu Dhabi Peace Forum’s participation in the activities of the World Economic Forum 2024 in Davos, as an embodiment of its involvement in the Executive Council of the Council of 100 initiative, an initiative launched by the World Economic Forum to enhance dialogue and understanding between the Islamic world and the West.

In this regard, Cheikh bin Bayyah participated in a closed round table chaired by the President and Founder of the Davos Forum, His Excellency Mr. Klaus Schwab.

With a limited number of participants, the round table aims to examine the challenges of the modern world and explore the role of civil society in enhancing multilateral cooperation.

The second day also witnessed the launch of the Davos Forum report: “Faith in Action” which was focused on the role of education and artificial intelligence in achieving sustainable peace.

In his speech on the occasion, the Secretary-General highlighted the role of religions in countering global challenges.

He presented the role of the Abu Dhabi Peace Forum in developing concepts of artificial intelligence ethics, through its participation in the Rome Call for Artificial Intelligence Ethics in cooperation with international bodies such as the Pontifical Academy for Life in the Vatican.

He also highlighted The Forum’s role in establishing the first AI and Civil Society Commission which was launched in London in December 2023 to examine the role of ethics and governance in AI.

The third day was consecrated for the “Fait in Action” theme with the participation of a number of prominent figures from different religious backgrounds and senior actors in civil society.

His Excellency bin Bayyah addressed in his speech the fundamental value of human dignity which is deeply rooted in the teachings of all religions, especially in the values of Islam and its sacred texts.

He also called - based on the historic Abu Dhabi Declarations for Peace, such as the Marrakesh Declaration, the New Curiosities Declaration, the Declaration of Universal Citizenship, and the Declaration of Human Fraternity - to build an international system that preserves human dignity and protects it effectively; regardless of any religious, cultural, and racial differences.

It is noteworthy that the Davos Forum is one of the most important international forums for world leaders, decision-makers, most prominent businessmen, and thinkers. This edition has witnessed the participation of a large array of political leaders, thinkers, and businessmen.