The Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Forum for Peace, Al-Mahfoudh bin Bayyah, met with Chaloka Beyani, the UN Special Adviser of the Secretary-General for the Prevention of Genocide, at the United Nations headquarters in New York. The meeting focused on enhancing collaboration in countering hate speech and preventing genocide and other atrocity crimes.
Exploring Future Cooperation in Africa
During the discussions, both sides examined opportunities for future cooperation in Africa through the African Conference for Promoting Peace and the U3 initiative. These programs are designed to support national dialogue, strengthen social cohesion, and address sources of tension and polarization before they escalate into conflict or large-scale violence.
Key Recommendations from London Dialogue
Bin Bayyah presented Beyani with the final report of the latest U3 initiative session, known as the London Dialogue. The report highlighted key recommendations on preventive dialogue and partnerships that support sustainable peace.
Technical Consultations and Joint Action
The two parties agreed to initiate technical consultations between their respective teams to identify areas of joint action. Priority areas include early warning mechanisms, countering hate speech, and enhancing the capacity of religious and community leaders to contribute to conflict prevention and the prevention of atrocity crimes.
Bin Bayyah emphasized that countering hate speech remains a critical priority in preventive action. He noted that wars often begin with words, and addressing rhetoric that incites hatred and exclusion is essential to protecting societies from violence, extremism, and divisions that can lead to mass atrocities.
