Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, the most prestigious Sunni body in the world, organized on Wednesday February 4,2026 a celebration marking the International Day of Human Fraternity, observed annually on February 4, in commemoration of the signing of the historic Document on Human Fraternity.
The document was signed in Abu Dhabi in 2019 by the Grand Imam Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Sheikh of Al-Azhar, and former Pope Francis of the Vatican, as part of consolidating Al-Azhar’s global role in promoting the values of human coexistence and fostering a culture of dialogue and peace among followers of different religions and cultures.
The celebration, held at the headquarters of the of Al-Azhar, was attended by Dr. Mohamed Abdel Rahman Al-Duweini, Deputy of Al-Azhar; Dr. Salama Dawoud, President of Al-Azhar University; His Grace Bishop Ermia, among others.
Dr. Mohamed Abdel Rahman Al-Duweini, Deputy Sheikh of Al-Azhar, said that the anniversary of the launch of the Document on Human Fraternity represents a pivotal milestone in contemporary human history, stressing that it is among the most important ethical documents of the modern era.
He noted that it came at a time of profound global turmoil to deliver a clear message: that religions can serve as bridges for peace rather than causes of conflict, and that authentic religious values are capable of saving the world from its crises if they are properly invoked and put into practice.
He explained that the document embodies Al-Azhar’s civilizational vision based on compassion, peace, and respect for diversity, pointing out that since its emergence, Islam has acknowledged difference as a universal law and made mutual acquaintance and integration its ultimate aim.
