Event Summary
The Sixth Forum of the Global Network of Religions for Children (GNRC), held in Abu Dhabi, served as a historic gathering for global interfaith collaboration and child advocacy. Hosted by the Interfaith Alliance for Safer Communities (IAFSC) and convened by Arigatou International, the Forum united religious leaders, policymakers, and youth from around the world. The event reinforced the collective commitment of diverse faith traditions to protect the most vulnerable and ensure a future defined by dignity and peace.
Guided by the theme “The Child is Calling: Interfaith Cooperation to Build a Hopeful World for Children,” the Forum emphasized the moral imperative for faith communities to respond to the urgent needs of children. This theme served as a powerful mandate, centering the lived experiences of children in every discussion. It challenged participants to move toward concrete, faith-driven actions that address systemic challenges, ranging from violence and exploitation to poverty and climate change.
The Forum’s work was structured around three foundational pillars: building a Safe, Secure, and Sustainable world. These tracks addressed critical issues such as child dignity in the digital age, the impact of conflict, and the necessity of ethical education for sustainable development. A central feature was the authentic participation of children and youth, who formulated their own recommendations to ensure the next generation remained active partners in shaping global policy and community resilience.
The Forum culminated in the adoption of the Abu Dhabi Declaration, a landmark document providing a comprehensive roadmap for interfaith action. This declaration, alongside the launch of the GNRC Strategic Plan 2025–2030, sets a transformative agenda for the years ahead.
Visit GNRC 6th Forum WebsiteStatistics
600+
Attendees
170
Panelists and speakers
90
Countries represented
