PURPOSES: The International Day of Human Fraternity observed on 4 February, is a way to promote harmony between all people regardless of their faith. It further recognized the imperative need for dialogue among different faiths and religions to enhance mutual understanding, harmony and cooperation among people. With the awareness that on our own we cannot save ourselves, the resolution calls on making every effort so that Interreligious Dialogue and intercultural dialogue are promoted, as advocated in the Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together signed in 2019 in Abu Dhabi by Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmad al-Tayyeb Aldj.
FORUM: “Dialogue Over Division.” International Day of Human Fraternity 2026. This year’s theme calls on all of us to put dialogue over division. Dialogue does not mean we must agree on everything. It means we listen with care, speak with responsibility, and recognize each other’s humanity. Especially when we feel afraid, angry or uncertain. Human fraternity and the values it embodies such as mutual respect, diversity of cultures and religions, and the advancement of intercultural and inter-religious dialogue reminds us of the common values that we share as one humanity. This spirit is particularly needed at a time when many communities are divided across religious, ethnic, and cultural lines. Growing religious hatred, stigma, and manifestations of various forms of discrimination against vulnerable communities including minorities are an affront to human rights and United Nations values. Such vile acts risk undermining global efforts to recover and rebuild better in a post-pandemic era. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #4February, #HumanFraternityDay, #peace.
EVENT: On Wednesday, February 4th, 2026 to mark the International Day of Human Fraternity 2026 from 14:00 to 17:00 PM EST (New York time); The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) in partnership with the Permanent Mission of Egypt to the United Nations and Permanent Mission of the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations, are organizing a virtual event for Member States, religious leaders, faith actors, and civil society representatives. The upcoming virtual event will provide an opportunity to highlight the principles and values included in the Document of Human Fraternity and renew our joint commitment to promoting mutual respect, religious and cultural diversity, and advancing dialogue. Register to participate!
LIVESTREAM: The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity is an annual independent and international award recognizing individuals or entities across the world who lead by example, collaborating selflessly and tirelessly to bridge divides and create real human connection, often at great personal sacrifice. Honorees receive a USD$1 million prize. The Azerbaijan-Armenia Peace Agreement, Afghan girls’ education advocate Ms. Zarqa Yaftali, and Palestinian welfare organization Taawon are the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity 2026 honorees. They are being honored for their humanitarian work in this year’s ceremony on February 4th at the Founder’s Memorial in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. An independent jury selects these individuals and organizations for their notable contributions to pressing societal issues and nurturing peace and solidarity, making an impact in their communities as well as globally. The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity is an annual independent international award that recognizes people and entities of all backgrounds, anywhere in the world, who are working selflessly and tirelessly across divides to advance the timeless values of solidarity, integrity, fairness, and optimism, and create breakthroughs towards peaceful coexistence. The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity 2026 Ceremony will be streamed live. Watch the livestream!
STATEMENTS: Read the statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the International Day of Human Fraternity 2026; February 4th.
PODCASTS: Growing religious hatred, stigma and manifestations of various forms of discrimination against vulnerable communities including minorities risk undermining global efforts to recover and rebuild better. This phenomenon is an affront to the values and principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, in particular the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion as well as the UN General Assembly resolution 36/55 of 25 November 1981 “Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief”.
CAMPAIGN MATERIALS: The campaign 2026 ”Dialogue over division” will help to promote a culture of peace, tolerance, inclusion, understanding, and solidarity. Get the communication materials!
Why We celebrate it?
The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed February 4th as International Day of Human Fraternity, with resolution 75/200. The celebration of the International Day of Human Fraternity within the setting of World Interfaith Harmony Week provides an opportunity to highlight the principles and value included in the Document of Human Fraternity and explore good practices towards its implementation as a pathway to the future as we rebuild a better world.
ACTIONS
Promote the acceptance and respect of religious and cultural diversity through interreligious and intercultural dialogue will create an environment conducive to building peaceful, just and inclusive societies.
Strengthen human connection and impact people’s lives by addressing divisions, building resilient communities, and fostering solidarity.
PARTNERS
The participation of Pope Francis and several other personalities, including Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed of Abu Dhabi – the host of the online event – the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmad Al-Tayyeb, UN Secretary-General António Guterres, and other personalities.