HCHF champions coexistence dialogue in Southeast Asia amid global divides

ABU DHABI: As geopolitical tensions, climate distress and identity-based fractures deepen worldwide, a new effort to bridge humanity’s divides will take center stage in Southeast Asia.

AI Brief

Jakarta will host a major interfaith conference to promote peace, unity, and cooperation in Asia's diverse and divided landscape.
The event, inspired by the 2019 Abu Dhabi Document, will address justice, climate, media's role, and youth engagement.
Indonesia's leadership in hosting the forum highlights its growing role as a moral voice in ASEAN and the wider global community.

On July 29–30, Jakarta will host the International Conference on Human Fraternity, co-organised by the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity (HCHF) and the Indonesian International Islamic University (IIIU).

Themed “Advancing Human Fraternity Amid Global Uncertainty: Towards a More Peaceful and Prosperous Civilization”, the gathering will convene leaders across faiths, ideologies, and regions to foster coexistence in an increasingly fractured world.

The event marks the official launch of the Indonesian Institute of Human Fraternity, a first-of-its-kind regional center dedicated to promoting dialogue, mutual respect, and inclusive cooperation in Asia where the demographic and religious diversity of over 4.7 billion people.

According to HCHF Secretary General, Dr. Khalid Al Ghaith, this conference embodies the commitment to fostering understanding and solidarity, crucial for overcoming global challenges.

“The Higher Committee of Human Fraternity believes deeply in our shared humanity,” he said.

It draws direct inspiration from the 2019 Abu Dhabi Document on Human Fraternity, a groundbreaking declaration signed by Pope Francis and Grand Imam Ahmad Al-Tayyeb has since shaped peacebuilding narratives from Vatican City to Southeast Asia.

Rector of IIIU, Prof. Jamhari calls the conference an urgent call for unity and cooperation to build a more inclusive and just global society.

Key agenda items include:

• Cross-border fraternity in a divided geopolitical landscape • Rights and social justice amid rising populism • The role of media bridging divides • Climate change, global crises and environmental justice

HCHF’s youth-centric approach to global dialogue is seen as a counter-force to divisive trends and fostering coexistence must start young to break generational cycles of fear and division .

The strategic significance of Jakarta as host cannot be overlooked. As a major Muslim-majority democracy and ASEAN’s largest economy, Indonesia is emerging as a moral compass in a region where shared values are increasingly being tested.

What emerges from Jakarta later this month could offer a much-needed framework not only for diplomacy, but for everyday coexistence.