Press Release: Unite for Tolerance and Human Fraternity Against Extremism
OIPMA Calls for International Decade of Tolerance (2025-2035)
at the International Forum for Tolerance and Human Fraternity
Geneva, Switzerland – February 4, 2025
In response to growing global divisions and extremism, the International Organisation for the Least Developed Countries (OIPMA) has called for an International Decade of Tolerance (2025-2035), a bold new initiative to address intolerance and foster peace across the world. This call to action was made at the high-level International Forum for Tolerance and Human Fraternity, hosted at the United Nations Office in Geneva, which brought together international leaders, policymakers, and experts to mark the International Day of Human Fraternity.
Chaired by OIPMA President Saeed Mokbil, the forum focused on global efforts to promote peace and tolerance, with special attention given to the Abu Dhabi Declaration (Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together). While progress was acknowledged, speakers agreed on the urgent need for more coordinated, concrete actions to counter the increasing polarization around the globe.
Global Leaders Advocate for Change
Among the distinguished speakers at the forum were:
- H.E. President Aidarus Al-Zubaidi, Vice President of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council, addressed the ongoing fight against extremism and terrorism in southern Yemen, as well as the violations committed by the Houthi militia in the north and the Red Sea. He called for stronger global security partnerships and increased support for reconstruction efforts. “Our struggle is not merely a local issue; it is an advanced front in the fight to protect global security and stability. Like all peoples, we seek a future of peace, democracy, and pluralism, free from violence and extremism,” he stated.
Statement of President Al-Zubaidi - Ana Luiza Thompson-Flores, Director of the UNESCO Liaison Office in Geneva, emphasized the collective resolve and shared commitments outlined in the UNESCO Declaration of Principles on Tolerance. She highlighted the urgent necessity of intercultural dialogue to foster respect, acceptance, and appreciation for diversity.
Statement of Mrs. Ana Luiza Thompson Flores - Dr. Arben Ramkaj, Director of the Center for Interfaith Cooperation, discussed the Document on Human Fraternity (Abu Dhabi), emphasizing it as a unique political commitment to unite religions and a framework for world peace aligned with the UN’s agenda. He also highlighted Albania’s model of religious coexistence as a powerful example for the world.
Statement of Dr. Arben Ramkaj - Mr. Pablo Demierre, Founder of the International Institute for Diplomacy, , called for cross-sector cooperation to address pressing global issues such as climate displacement and gender inequality. He emphasized the role of education in providing practical solutions through diplomacy, advocating for a culture of peace and active diplomacy with stakeholders to foster peace, tolerance, and cooperation.
Statement of Mr. Pablo Demierre - Dr. Sarah Markiewicz, Senior Advisor at the Inter-Parliamentary Union, emphasized the role of national parliaments in promoting tolerance, peace, social cohesion, and equality through collective action and effective legislation.
Statement of Dr. Sarah Markiewicz - Dr. Azza Karam, Member of the UN High-Level Advisory Board on Multilateralism, discussed the relationship between religion and politics, highlighting its potential divisive impacts. She underscored the importance of religious coexistence, peaceful coexistence, and the vital role of civil society in promoting harmony.
Statement of Dr. Azza Karam - Dr. Thomas Renard, Director of the International Centre for Counter-Terrorism, stressed the importance of social cohesion in preventing terrorism. He discussed the global challenges of terrorism and hatred, advocating for a holistic, collaborative approach to counterterrorism and emphasizing the need for effective prevention efforts.
Statement of Dr. Thomas Renard - Mrs. Jade McLachlan, Executive Director of OIPMA, Former Senior Aide and Advisor within the UK Government and at the Office of the UN Secretary General, presented a vision for adopting the International Decade for Tolerance, focusing on the key actions and commitments required to foster a global culture of tolerance, peace, and understanding. She outlined actionable steps aimed at achieving these goals.
Statement of Mrs. Jade McLachlan
A Decade of Commitment to Tolerance
The forum’s key outcome was the call for the International Decade of Tolerance and Human Fraternity (2025-2035), drawing on key UN resolutions such as A/RES 36/55 A “Declaration on Tolerance,” A/RES 75/200 “Resolution on the Prevention of Violent Extremism,” A/RES 30/15 “Resolution on Countering Violent Extremism,” A/RES 60/288 “UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy,” and the UNESCO “Declaration of Principles on Tolerance.”
This initiative aims to promote global education, inclusion, human rights, and dialogue, with a strong focus on accountability. OIPMA emphasized the need for real, measurable progress, ensuring that all stakeholders are held accountable in the pursuit of a more tolerant and peaceful world.
A Call for Action
In her closing remarks, OIPMA Secretary Elma Mislimi underscored the importance of turning the forum’s discussions into tangible action. She emphasized that the launch of the International Decade of Tolerance offers an opportunity for global collaboration to create lasting peace and inclusivity across borders.
Turning Dialogue into Change
OIPMA President Saeed Mokbil concluded the forum by thanking participants and reaffirming OIPMA’s commitment to the principles of tolerance and human fraternity. He reminded all attendees that real change begins with individual and collective action and called for global cooperation to turn meaningful dialogue into lasting progress.
With intolerance and extremism threatening global peace, the International Decade of Tolerance is a crucial step toward embedding tolerance as a core principle in governance, education, and everyday life. The initiative is designed to foster an inclusive, peaceful future for all.