Astana facilitates the eighth gathering of spiritual figures for discussion and possibilities
Eighth Congress of World and Traditional Religions Kicks Off in Astana
The Eighth Congress of World and Traditional Religions Leaders is currently underway in Astana, Kazakhstan, bringing together over 100 delegations from approximately 60 countries. This 22-year-old event, a testament to Kazakhstan's long-term commitment to fostering dialogue among religious communities, is hosting high-ranking representatives from Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Judaism, Hinduism, Taoism, Zoroastrianism, and Shintoism.
The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations is acting as patron in the preliminary meeting on the protection of religious sites. The wide range of religious leaders and international representatives present underscores the desire for dialogue and the search for joint solutions amid global turbulence.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the President of Kazakhstan, emphasized the importance of interreligious and intercultural harmony in the country's domestic and foreign policy. The congress may also emphasize the importance of interreligious and intercultural harmony, as previously mentioned by President Tokayev.
Discussions at the congress focus on the role of religion in addressing contemporary global challenges such as conflict prevention, combating radicalization, ethical issues surrounding artificial intelligence, and problems of digital inequality. The main objective of the congress is to discuss these issues and find common ground for cooperation.
In addition, particular attention is given to the possibilities for interfaith cooperation in humanitarian fields such as education, healthcare, and social support. The increasing religious polarization and crisis in international institutions make these discussions especially relevant.
The congress may also involve discussions on strengthening cooperation, including with Saudi Arabia, as previously mentioned during a meeting with Sheikh Muhammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, Secretary-General of the Muslim World League.
If adopted, the declaration and action programme expected to conclude the congress would likely address these issues. This would be a first in the event's history. The programme, if adopted, would extend to 2033, making it a long-term commitment to these discussions.
Kazakhstan has prior experience acting as a mediator in international conflicts and diplomatic initiatives. The eighth Congress of World and Traditional Religious Leaders is also viewed as a platform for developing multilateral strategies for sustainable development and security.
In 2025, Kazakhstan proposed establishing an International Platform for Strengthening Interreligious Trust with the support of the United Nations and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). The congress continues to be a significant step in Kazakhstan's efforts to promote dialogue and cooperation among religious communities.
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