Global Council for Tolerance and Peace and Organization of American States Forge Landmark Partnership in Washington, D.C

Washington, D.C., January 8, 2025 –

In a significant step toward advancing global cooperation on tolerance and peace, the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace (GCTP) and the Organization of American States (OAS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering collaboration in human rights, freedom of belief, and the promotion of democratic values.

The agreement was signed in a hybrid ceremony, with H.E. Ahmed bin Mohamed Al Jarwan, President of the GCTP, participating remotely from Rome, Italy, and OAS Secretary-General H.E. Luis Almagro signing at the organization’s headquarters in Washington, D.C.

The OAS, established in 1948 and headquartered in Washington, represents 35 nations in the Americas. As one of the oldest international organizations in the Western Hemisphere, its mission centers on promoting democracy, human rights, peace, security, and sustainable development across the region.

The event was attended by Mrs. Margarita Restrepo Arango, President of the General Assembly for Tolerance and Peace, and Mr. Gustavo Acosta, GCTP’s representative for Latin America and the Caribbean, underscoring the shared commitment to fostering peace and understanding on a global scale.

In his remarks, Secretary-General Almagro highlighted the MoU’s strategic importance:” We are honored to sign this cooperation agreement with the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace. Through this partnership, we will work on initiatives that promote democracy, tolerance, religious freedom, and human rights in our region and beyond.”

Echoing these sentiments, H.E. Al Jarwan emphasized the shared vision between the two organizations:”Tolerance and peace are not abstract ideals; they are guiding principles that must inform policies and international cooperation. This MoU is a testament to our commitment to building a world rooted in justice and harmony for future generations.”

The MoU outlines a framework for collaboration in several key areas:

• Promoting international law and democratic values.

• Developing and implementing joint initiatives, including training programs and capacity-building for professionals and students.

• Conducting research and facilitating knowledge exchange on best practices in tolerance and peacebuilding.

• Organizing conferences, seminars, and panel discussions to promote dialogue and collaboration.

• Establishing platforms for engagement with other networks and stakeholders.

The agreement reflects a shared ambition to create more tolerant, equitable, and peaceful societies—not only within the Americas but globally.