The World Forum for Intercultural Dialogue was recently held for the sixth time in Baku, Azerbaijan. Despite the backdrop of conflict and rising anti-Semitism around the world, the forum aimed to foster dialogue and relationships between leaders of different religions, including Judaism, Islam, Christianity, and others. Over three days, the conference featured plenary sessions and panel discussions with government officials, international organization representatives, cultural figures, journalists, religious leaders, and intellectuals from various countries.
In 2023, there was a significant increase in anti-Semitic incidents compared to the previous year. A report by the Ministry of Diaspora, the Zionist Organization, and the Jewish Agency highlighted that most of these incidents occurred in the United States and Europe. The ongoing ‘Iron Swords’ war has contributed to this trend by leading to heightened tensions and intolerance towards Jewish communities.
Gadi Gronich emphasized the need for religious leaders to play a more active role in promoting understanding, tolerance, and partnership among people of different faiths. Despite the rise in anti-Semitism, he expressed hope that interreligious dialogue could help repair damaged relationships and combat hatred and discrimination. He called on religious leaders to work together to address manifestations of anti-Semitism and advocate for peace.
Nihal Saad condemned all forms of hate crimes against religious communities, including anti-Semitism, Islamophobia
