Director-General's remarks on the International Day of Human Fraternity

International Day of Human Fraternity
Tuesday, 10 February 2026, at 10.00 a.m.
Room IX, Palais des Nations

Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Dear friends,

It is a great honor to welcome you today to the Palais des Nations as we come together to observe the International Day of Human Fraternity. On this occasion, we celebrate our common humanity and renew our shared commitment to peace, unity, and mutual respect.

I would like to warmly thank the Permanent Representative of the United Arab Emirates, H.E. Ambassador Al Musharakh, the Permanent Observer of the University for Peace, H.E. Ambassador Fernandez Puyana, and the Secretary-General of the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity, H.E. Mr. Khalid Al Ghaith, for organizing today’s event.

In 2020, recognizing the urgent need for deeper intercultural and interreligious understanding, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 4 February as the International Day of Human Fraternity. This date commemorates the historic meeting between Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmad al-Tayyib, held on 4 February 2019, in Abu Dhabi, which resulted in the signing of the document entitled “Human fraternity for world peace and living together”, now widely known as the “Abu Dhabi Document on Human Fraternity”.  

This day serves as a powerful reminder that we belong to one human family, rich in cultural and religious diversity, yet united in dignity and rights. And yet, this message could not be more timely. As the Secretary-General noted when presenting his priorities for 2026, we are witnessing around the world the risk of societies breaking down under the weight of racism, nationalist xenophobia and religious bigotry. As he warned, these poisons are corroding the fabric of communities, fueling divisions and distrust. It is precisely in this context that “building unity in an age of division” has been identified by the Secretary-General as one of the Organization’s three core priorities for 2026 and beyond.

In an era marked by polarization, misunderstanding, and growing intolerance, human fraternity calls upon every one of us to choose dialogue over division, to listen with empathy, and to uphold the equal worth of every person.

Over the years, Geneva has played a central role in advancing global dialogue on human dignity and cooperation. As the home to nearly 40 United Nations entities and a crossroads for diplomatic, civil society and academic engagement, International Geneva — with the United Nations Office at Geneva at its heart — is a vital forum where diverse perspectives converge and common purpose is forged. Here, discussions on human rights, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence are not only debated, but transformed into policies and partnerships with global impact.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Human fraternity challenges us to look beyond our differences, to see not threats, but opportunities for understanding, not conflict, but the potential for cooperation. It urges us to reject discrimination, xenophobia, and hate speech, and instead to build inclusive societies where every voice is heard and every person’s dignity is protected.

The International Day of Human Fraternity is not just symbolic. It calls for action in our schools, communities, and institutions. It calls us to promote education that nurtures respect and mutual understanding; to strengthen intercultural dialogue that bridges divides; and to foster inclusive spaces where all people, regardless of belief or background, can live together in peace.

Today’s gathering embodies the spirit of collective responsibility that defines the United Nations itself. As we reflect on the values of equality, unity and mutual respect, let us renew our determination to make these values real in our daily lives and in the world at large. Let International Day of Human Fraternity serve as a catalyst for deeper cooperation, stronger dialogue, and a renewed commitment to a future where diversity is celebrated and our common humanity cherished.

I thank you for your dedication to this cause, and I wish you fruitful discussions and meaningful exchanges.

Thank you.