His Excellency Sheikh Al-Mahfouz bin Bayyah, Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Peace Forum, highlighted the crucial role of religions in addressing global challenges during his participation in the World Economic Forum 2024 in Davos.
Sheikh Al-Mahfouz bin Bayyah commended the United Arab Emirates’ vision to promote a culture of peace and tolerance globally, emphasizing its leadership in sustainable development. He underscored the world’s need for a civilizational embrace that ensures security, stability, and economic prosperity for all. Additionally, he acknowledged the UAE’s success in hosting the World Climate Summit “COP28.”
As part of his engagement in the Davos forum, Sheikh Al-Mahfouz bin Bayyah discussed the Abu Dhabi Peace Forum’s role in advancing the ethics of artificial intelligence. He highlighted initiatives such as the Rome Call for Artificial Intelligence Ethics, developed in collaboration with international bodies like the Pontifical Academy for Life in the Vatican. Moreover, he outlined the forum’s contribution to establishing the first committee for Artificial Intelligence and Civil Society, launched in London in December 2023, focusing on ethics and governance in artificial intelligence.
The forum’s active involvement in the Council of 100 Initiative, launched by the World Economic Forum to foster dialogue between the Islamic world and the West, was also emphasized.
Sheikh Al-Mahfouz bin Bayyah participated in a closed round table led by Klaus Schwab, the President and Founder of the Davos Forum. The session, limited to a select number of participants, delved into modern world challenges and explored the role of civil society in enhancing multilateral cooperation.
On the second day, the Davos Forum unveiled the report “Faith in Action” during a strategic discussion session, focusing on the role of education and artificial intelligence in achieving sustainable peace.
The third day featured the “Dialogue over Dinner: Faith in Action,” with the participation of influential figures from various religious backgrounds and key actors in civil society. Sheikh Al-Mahfouz bin Bayyah addressed the fundamental value of human dignity rooted in the teachings of all religions, particularly in Islam. He called for the establishment of an international system that preserves human dignity across religious, cultural, and ethnic differences, emphasizing values such as equality, fairness, and embracing diversity.
