GNRC ends with launch of ‘Abu Dhabi Call’

The Sixth Global Network of Religions for Children (GNRC) Forum, hosted by the Interfaith Alliance for Safer Communities, concluded in Abu Dhabi with the release of the “Abu Dhabi Call.”

This global declaration brought together international religious leaders, thinkers, and specialists over three days of in-depth dialogues.

The discussions aimed to unify perspectives, address challenges, and enhance the role of religious leaders in protecting children worldwide.

The “Abu Dhabi Call,” launched at Wahat Al Karama, underscored a shared commitment to ensuring every child’s right to safety and dignity.

It calls for immediate and unified action across religions, governments, and civil society, proposing an actionable plan focusing on interfaith dialogue, mental health support, comprehensive policies, and eliminating harmful practices.

Signatories pledged to amplify children’s voices, safeguard their dignity, and work compassionately towards a sustainable future.

The declaration was formulated in consultation with over 100 leaders from faith-based organisations, international bodies, and NGOs.

In his speech at the closing ceremony, Sheikh Abdullah Bin Bayyah, Chairman of the UAE Fatwa Council said, “Protecting children is a permanent priority at all times, because it is one of those topics that touches on humans (the individual and the family) in the closest and dearest people to them, which are children. On the other hand, it touches on and concerns society and the state as a whole because it is concerned with the future in all its meanings. Moreover, child protection initiatives become more necessary and more urgent in areas witnessing armed conflicts and wars, which expose children to major dangers that threaten their lives and tear their entity apart. These areas should be given priority in all projects directed at children.”

He added that the Islamic religion has taken care of children by raising their bodies and minds, developing their talents and caring for all their conditions.

The prophetic teachings regarding children were a reference for scholars in classifying books and allocating many items.

He praised the UAE’s care for orphans and humanitarian stances to help children, especially in countries witnessing conflicts, which is in line with tolerant religious values and teachings.

It is the first Arab country to join the Global Partnership to “End Violence against Children.”

“In this regard, we also commend the great efforts made by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Mother of the Emirates, to care for children.”

WAM