Makkah Hosts 9th Conference of Muslim World Awqaf and Islamic Affairs Ministers

Riyadh Makkah is set to host the 9th Conference of Ministers of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs on August 3, 2024, under the distinguished patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. This prestigious event, organized by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawa, and Guidance, addresses critical issues related to Awqaf (endowments) and Islamic affairs in the contemporary world.

Promoting Moderation and Unity

The central theme of this year’s Awqaf Conference is “Promoting Principles and Consolidating Values of Moderation.” This theme is highly relevant as it addresses the pressing need for moderate interpretations of Islam amidst growing global tensions and extremism. The conference will serve as a platform for discussing how to foster moderation within Islamic discourse and counteract radical ideologies.

The event will feature diverse participants, including ministers of Awqaf and Islamic affairs from over 60 countries, muftis, and leaders from various Islamic councils and associations. Their collective expertise and insights will be crucial in shaping effective strategies for addressing the challenges the Muslim world faces today.

Key Topics and Working Sessions

The conference will consist of ten working sessions, each focusing on critical aspects of Islamic affairs and Awqaf. These sessions are designed to provide comprehensive discussions and actionable solutions to a range of issues:

• Promoting Moderation: One of the primary discussions will revolve around the role of renewed religious discourse in promoting moderation. This involves exploring strategies to enhance the understanding and practice of moderate Islam to prevent radicalization and promote harmony.
• Combating Extremism: Participants will delve into methods for combating extremism, fanaticism, and terrorism. The goal is to develop strategies that address the root causes of radical ideologies and mitigate their impact on global security.
• Addressing Hate Speech: The conference will address the need to protect societies from hate speech and extremist rhetoric. Discussions will focus on creating frameworks to counteract harmful speech and foster a culture of respect and inclusivity.
• Fostering Tolerance: Another key topic will be promoting values of tolerance and coexistence. The sessions will explore ways to encourage dialogue and understanding among different communities to build a more harmonious society.
• Fighting Islamophobia: The conference will also tackle Islamophobia, exploring strategies to combat prejudice and discrimination against Muslims. This includes promoting positive narratives and enhancing intercultural dialogue.
• Economic Impact of Awqaf: Discussions will highlight the economic contributions of Awqaf to national economies. The focus will be on how endowment funds can drive development and investment, benefiting both local and national economies.

Leadership and Support: A Commitment to Excellence

Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif bin Abdulaziz Al Al-Sheikh, Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawa, and Guidance, and Chairman of the Executive Council for the conference, has expressed deep gratitude to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their significant support. Their backing underscores the importance of the conference and highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advancing Islamic values and international cooperation.

King Salman’s patronage and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s involvement reflect the Saudi leadership’s dedication to fostering global dialogue on Islamic affairs. Their support ensures that the conference will be a high-impact event with far-reaching implications for the Muslim world.

The Impact of the Awqaf Conference on Global Dialogue

The 9th Awqaf Conference is anticipated to be a pivotal event in the field of Islamic affairs. It will provide a unique opportunity for leaders from around the world to collaborate on addressing critical issues related to moderation, extremism, and the role of Awqaf. The conference aims to produce actionable insights and strategies that can be implemented in various contexts to promote peace and development.

By focusing on key topics such as combating extremism and fostering tolerance, the conference seeks to address some of the most pressing challenges facing the Muslim world today. The discussions will contribute to a more nuanced understanding of Islamic principles and their application in contemporary society.

As Makkah prepares to host this landmark event, the anticipation is palpable. Delegates from across the globe are expected to engage in rich discussions and collaborative efforts to advance the goals of the conference. The sessions will be designed to facilitate meaningful exchanges of ideas and foster cooperative solutions to global challenges.

Participants will benefit from the opportunity to learn from experts in the field and contribute to shaping the future of Islamic discourse. The conference will also serve as a platform for networking and building partnerships among various Islamic organizations and institutions.

The 9th Awqaf Conference represents a significant step forward in the ongoing effort to promote moderation, tolerance, and effective use of endowment funds. By bringing together a diverse group of leaders and experts, the conference aims to drive positive change and enhance the role of Awqaf in supporting socio-economic development.

As the conference approaches, stakeholders are hopeful that it will yield practical solutions and foster greater international cooperation in the field of Islamic affairs. The insights gained from the conference are expected to have a lasting impact on policies and practices related to moderation, extremism, and economic development within the Muslim world.

For updates and detailed coverage of the Awqaf Conference, continue to follow official announcements and news sources covering this important event.