The 2026 Religions for Peace International Council was held in the Republic of Mauritius, bringing together more than 200 religious leaders from approximately 50 countries. Representing Religions for Peace Japan, Secretary General Rev. Dr. Yoshinori Shinohara participated in discussions with religious leaders from around the world on advancing peacebuilding efforts.

The Council addressed a range of complex and interconnected challenges facing the world today, including armed conflict, social division, climate change, global poverty and debt, and the ethics of artificial intelligence (AI). Rather than discussing peace solely as an ideal, participants explored how religious leaders can offer ethical perspectives on these pressing issues and work in cooperation with the international community to address them.

The overarching theme of the meeting was “Shared Sacred Worldview.” Grounded in the belief that all life is interconnected, participants shared the understanding that our own well-being is inseparable from the well-being of others, future generations, and the Earth. Dialogue focused on realizing a society built on trust and solidarity.

Participants also engaged in active discussions on Shared Sacred Flourishing (SSF), an initiative promoted by Religions for Peace International, and reaffirmed their commitment to further expanding its implementation in regions around the world.

At a time when division and mistrust continue to deepen across the international community, the role of religious leaders in building trust through dialogue and connecting people across diverse communities and perspectives is becoming increasingly important. Religions for Peace Japan will continue to build on these international discussions and networks in its activities in Japan as it advances its efforts toward the realization of peace.