The United Nations (UN’s) World Interfaith Harmony Week (WIHW) is observed annually across the globe during the first week of February (1-7) to promote peace, tolerance, and nonviolence among people of all faiths.
- WIHW 2025 is observed from 1-7 February 2025.
- WIHW promotes the shared values of “Love of God and Love of the Neighbor” or “Love of the Good and Love of the Neighbor.” Its message is inclusive, open to all, and entirely voluntary.
Background:
i.WIHW was 1st proposed by H.M. King Abdullah II and HRH Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad of Jordan at the 65th United Nation General Assembly (UNGA) on September 23 2010.
ii.On October 20 2010, the UN recognized the first week of February as WIHW through resolution A/RES/65/5. The resolution aims to foster peace, nonviolence, and understanding across different faiths globally.
- The first-ever WIHW was observed from 1-7, February 2011.
iii.WIHW is rooted in ‘The Common Word’ initiative started in 2007, which brought together Muslim and Christian leaders to discuss the shared values of love for God and love for one’s neighbor.
- This initiative highlighted common religious principles that unite, rather than divide, people of different beliefs.
iv.The week-long celebration encourages people from all backgrounds to recognize their shared humanity and divine connection, regardless of their faith.
Significance:
i.WIHW is based on the pioneering work of the open letter “A Common Word Between Us and You” (ACW), authored by Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad of Jordan.
ii.This letter, published in 2007, was signed by 138 Muslim scholars and leaders and addressed to 28 Christian leaders and their communities.
iii.The purpose was to seek common ground for fostering better relations between Muslims and Christians.
iv.The ACW expands on the Two Commandments by incorporating the principles of “Love of the Good” and “Love of the Neighbor.”
v.This broader framework embraces all individuals of goodwill, including those of different faiths and even those without any religious affiliation.
vi.It fosters inclusivity, uniting people around shared values of kindness, respect, and compassion.
About United Nations (UN):
Secretary-General (SG)– António Guterres
Headquarters- New York, the United States of America (USA)
Established – 1945
