The King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue (KAICIID) convened a high-level international conference in Rome on April 15, 2025, under the theme “Common Horizons: Interreligious Paths to Social Cohesion and Climate Justice.” The event, announced via the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), brought together religious leaders, representatives of international organizations, and experts in dialogue and public policy to advance interfaith cooperation on two of the world’s most pressing challenges: social cohesion and climate justice. The conference forms part of a series of preparatory events for the European Policy Dialogue Forum on Refugees and Migrants, scheduled to take place in Geneva in November 2025.
The Rome gathering underscores KAICIID’s ongoing mission to bridge religions and cultures in addressing shared global challenges. As an organization founded by Saudi Arabia, Austria, Spain, and the Holy See, KAICIID has long served as a platform for dialogue that transcends religious and cultural divides. The choice of Rome—a city symbolic of both religious heritage and international diplomacy—highlights the importance of engaging European and global stakeholders in conversations that link faith-based values with practical policy solutions. Could this conference mark a turning point in how religious institutions contribute to climate and migration policies? The outcomes suggest a growing recognition that sustainable solutions require moral and ethical frameworks alongside technical ones.
Context and Background
What makes KAICIID’s work particularly relevant in today’s global landscape? Established in 2012, KAICIID was created to promote dialogue among followers of different religions and cultures, with a mandate to foster mutual understanding and cooperation. Headquartered in Lisbon, the Centre operates as an intergovernmental organization with observer status at the United Nations. Its founding members—Saudi Arabia, Austria, and Spain—along with the Holy See as a founding observer, reflect a unique coalition that bridges the Islamic, Christian, and secular worlds. Over the past decade, KAICIID has facilitated numerous dialogues, trained thousands of religious leaders, and supported peacebuilding efforts in conflict zones from the Central African Republic to Iraq and Syria.
The Rome conference builds on this legacy by focusing on two interconnected themes: social cohesion and climate justice. Social cohesion refers to the bonds that hold communities together, particularly in diverse societies where religious, ethnic, and cultural differences can sometimes lead to tension. Climate justice addresses the disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable populations, often in developing countries, and calls for equitable solutions. By linking these themes, KAICIID acknowledges that environmental degradation and social fragmentation are not separate issues but deeply intertwined. Religious communities, with their moral authority and grassroots reach, are uniquely positioned to advocate for policies that protect both people and the planet.
The conference also serves as a preparatory step for the European Policy Dialogue Forum on Refugees and Migrants, to be held in Geneva in November 2025. That forum will bring together policymakers, civil society representatives, and faith leaders to discuss migration challenges in Europe and beyond. By addressing these issues in Rome, KAICIID ensures that the voices of religious leaders and dialogue experts are integrated into broader policy discussions. This approach aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which emphasizes international cooperation, sustainable development, and the Kingdom’s role as a bridge-builder in global affairs.
Key Details of the Rome Conference
What specific discussions and outcomes emerged from the Rome conference? According to the Saudi Press Agency, the event featured participation from a diverse array of religious leaders, representatives of international organizations, and experts in dialogue and public policy. While the SPA report did not disclose a full list of attendees, the presence of such a broad spectrum of stakeholders indicates the conference’s inclusive approach. Sessions likely addressed how faith-based organizations can contribute to climate action, refugee integration, and social cohesion policies. The theme “Common Horizons” suggests a forward-looking perspective, emphasizing shared goals rather than divisive narratives.
The conference is part of a series of preparatory events leading up to the Geneva forum. This sequential approach allows for cumulative dialogue, where insights from Rome will inform discussions in Geneva. KAICIID’s method involves not only high-level meetings but also capacity-building workshops, research, and community-level initiatives. For instance, KAICIID has previously developed tools like the “Dialogue for Peace” framework, which helps religious leaders mediate conflicts and promote reconciliation. The Rome conference likely showcased similar practical tools and case studies, demonstrating how interreligious dialogue can translate into tangible social impact.
Another key detail is the timing of the conference. April 2025 comes at a critical moment when Europe faces ongoing challenges related to migration, integration, and climate policy. The European Union has been grappling with how to manage asylum seekers and foster social inclusion, while also meeting its climate targets. By convening in Rome, KAICIID positions itself as a partner in these efforts, offering a values-based perspective that complements political and economic strategies. The conference also reinforces Saudi Arabia’s commitment to multilateralism and dialogue, principles that are central to the Kingdom’s foreign policy and its Vision 2030 goals.
International and Regional Impact
How does a conference in Rome ripple across the Middle East, Europe, and beyond? The immediate impact is the strengthening of networks among religious leaders and policymakers who will carry forward the dialogue. For Europe, the conference provides a timely reminder that faith communities are essential partners in addressing social challenges. In many European countries, religious institutions run food banks, refugee shelters, and integration programs. By engaging these institutions, policymakers can tap into trusted local networks that often reach marginalized populations more effectively than state agencies alone. The Rome conference likely facilitated connections between European faith leaders and their counterparts from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, fostering cross-regional learning.
For Saudi Arabia, the conference enhances the Kingdom’s reputation as a promoter of moderate Islam and interfaith harmony. Under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has increasingly positioned itself as a global leader in dialogue and peacebuilding. KAICIID, though headquartered in Lisbon, is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s founding role and continued support. The Kingdom’s participation in such events aligns with its efforts to modernize its image and build bridges with the West. Moreover, the focus on climate justice resonates with Saudi Arabia’s own environmental initiatives, such as the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative, which aim to combat desertification and reduce carbon emissions. By championing these causes on an international stage, Saudi Arabia demonstrates its commitment to global sustainability.
Economic and Strategic Significance
What economic and strategic benefits arise from interreligious dialogue? While the direct economic impact of a conference may be modest, the long-term strategic value is substantial. Social cohesion is a prerequisite for stable economies: when communities are divided, investment suffers, and growth stagnates. By fostering dialogue, KAICIID helps create environments where businesses can thrive and innovation can flourish. In Europe, the integration of migrants into the workforce is an economic imperative, given aging populations and labor shortages. Faith-based organizations often play a crucial role in vocational training and language programs for newcomers. The Rome conference likely highlighted such contributions, encouraging policymakers to support these efforts.
For Saudi Arabia, the strategic significance lies in soft power and diplomacy. KAICIID provides a platform for the Kingdom to engage with European and other international partners on non-oil issues, diversifying its relationships and showcasing its cultural and religious leadership. This aligns with Vision 2030’s goal of a “vibrant society” and “an ambitious nation.” By supporting dialogue that addresses climate justice, Saudi Arabia also positions itself as a responsible stakeholder in global climate negotiations, which is increasingly important as the world transitions to renewable energy. The conference in Rome thus serves as a building block for broader cooperation on trade, investment, and sustainable development.
Vision 2030 Alignment
How does the Rome conference reflect Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030? Vision 2030 is a comprehensive plan to diversify the Kingdom’s economy, empower its citizens, and enhance its global role. One of its key pillars is fostering international partnerships and promoting moderate Islam. KAICIID embodies these principles by creating spaces for interreligious and intercultural dialogue that transcend borders. The conference’s focus on social cohesion and climate justice directly supports the Vision’s emphasis on sustainability and quality of life. Saudi Arabia’s leadership in this area demonstrates that the Kingdom is not only a participant in global affairs but a proactive shaper of solutions.
Furthermore, the conference reinforces the Kingdom’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and Goal 13 (Climate Action). By linking faith to these global goals, KAICIID helps mobilize religious communities to contribute to measurable progress. As the world prepares for the Geneva forum in November 2025, the Rome conference stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s vision of a more harmonious and sustainable world. The Kingdom’s continued support for KAICIID underscores its belief that dialogue is not merely a diplomatic nicety but a practical tool for solving shared problems. In a world often divided by conflict and distrust, such initiatives offer a beacon of hope and a roadmap for collective action.
20 Questions
Q1. What is KAICIID and when was it established?
A1. KAICIID is the King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue. It was established in 2012 by Saudi Arabia, Austria, and Spain, with the Holy See as a founding observer. It promotes dialogue among different religions and cultures.
Q2. Where was the recent KAICIID conference held?
A2. The conference was held in Rome, Italy, on April 15, 2025. Rome was chosen for its symbolic significance as a center of religious heritage and international diplomacy, facilitating engagement with European and global stakeholders.
Q3. What was the theme of the Rome conference?
A3. The theme was “Common Horizons: Interreligious Paths to Social Cohesion and Climate Justice.” It focused on how religious communities can contribute to social cohesion and address climate change impacts, linking moral values with practical policy solutions.
Q4. Who participated in the Rome conference?
A4. Participants included religious leaders, representatives of international organizations, and experts in dialogue and public policy. This diverse group aimed to foster interfaith cooperation on social and environmental challenges.
Q5. What is the purpose of the upcoming Geneva forum?
A5. The European Policy Dialogue Forum on Refugees and Migrants will be held in Geneva in November 2025. It will bring together policymakers, civil society, and faith leaders to discuss migration challenges in Europe and beyond.
Q6. How does the Rome conference relate to the Geneva forum?
A6. The Rome conference is part of a series of preparatory events for the Geneva forum. Insights and outcomes from Rome will inform discussions in Geneva, ensuring a cumulative and integrated approach to dialogue on migration and social cohesion.
Q7. What is KAICIID’s mission?
A7. KAICIID’s mission is to bridge religions and cultures in addressing shared global challenges. It promotes mutual understanding, peacebuilding, and cooperation through dialogue, training, and research, with observer status at the United Nations.
Q8. Why are social cohesion and climate justice linked in the conference theme?
A8. Social cohesion and climate justice are interconnected because environmental degradation often exacerbates social tensions and inequalities. Religious communities can advocate for policies that protect both vulnerable populations and the planet, fostering equitable and sustainable solutions.
Q9. What role does Saudi Arabia play in KAICIID?
A9. Saudi Arabia is a founding member of KAICIID and continues to support its work. The Kingdom’s involvement reflects its commitment to moderate Islam, interfaith dialogue, and Vision 2030’s goals of international cooperation and global peacebuilding.
Q10. How does the conference align with Vision 2030?
A10. The conference aligns with Vision 2030 by promoting international partnerships, sustainability, and moderate Islam. It supports the Kingdom’s efforts to diversify its global role and contribute to solving shared challenges like climate change and migration.
Q11. What is the European Policy Dialogue Forum on Refugees and Migrants?
A11. It is a forum that brings together policymakers, civil society, and faith leaders to address migration challenges in Europe. The 2025 edition in Geneva will focus on integrating refugee and migrant perspectives into policy discussions.
Q12. How does KAICIID engage religious leaders in climate action?
A12. KAICIID engages religious leaders by providing platforms for dialogue, training, and advocacy. It encourages them to use their moral authority to promote environmental stewardship and to participate in policy discussions on climate justice.
Q13. What are some past achievements of KAICIID?
A13. KAICIID has facilitated dialogues in conflict zones like the Central African Republic, Iraq, and Syria. It has trained thousands of religious leaders and developed tools like the “Dialogue for Peace” framework to mediate conflicts and promote reconciliation.
Q14. Why is Rome a significant location for this conference?
A14. Rome is significant because it is a global center of religious heritage and diplomacy. Hosting the conference there highlights the importance of engaging European stakeholders and symbolizes the bridging of religious and cultural divides.
Q15. How can interreligious dialogue contribute to social cohesion?
A15. Interreligious dialogue builds trust and understanding among diverse communities. It reduces tensions, fosters collaboration on shared goals, and empowers religious institutions to address social issues like poverty, education, and integration, thereby strengthening community bonds.
Q16. What economic benefits can arise from social cohesion?
A16. Social cohesion creates stable environments that attract investment and foster economic growth. It facilitates the integration of migrants into the workforce, addressing labor shortages and driving innovation, which benefits both host countries and migrants.
Q17. How does Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 address climate change?
A17. Vision 2030 includes environmental sustainability through initiatives like the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative. These aim to reduce emissions, combat desertification, and promote renewable energy, aligning with global climate goals.
Q18. What is the significance of KAICIID’s observer status at the UN?
A18. Observer status at the UN allows KAICIID to participate in UN discussions and contribute to global policy dialogues. It enhances the organization’s credibility and enables it to advocate for interreligious dialogue within international frameworks.
Q19. How can faith-based organizations help refugees and migrants?
A19. Faith-based organizations provide essential services such as shelter, food, language training, and legal aid to refugees and migrants. They also offer moral support and community integration, helping newcomers adapt and contribute to society.
Q20. What is the expected outcome of the Geneva forum?
A20. The Geneva forum is expected to produce policy recommendations that integrate faith-based perspectives into migration strategies. It will strengthen networks among stakeholders and promote humane, effective responses to migration challenges in Europe and beyond.
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