Helsinki, 26 September 2025 – As part of a series of events hosted in the Finnish capital, Religions for Peace Europe held its latest Board meeting, closely linked with the “Global Convergence Challenge – Summit for Interfaith Unity and Peace” and the seminar for international and interfaith actors.

The meeting began with greetings from Prof. Genti Kruja, President of Religions for Peace Europe, and Dr. Francis Kuria, Secretary General of Religions for Peace International. The session was moderated by Maria Leppäkari, Secretary General of Religions for Peace Europe, and concluded with closing remarks by Mrs. Deepika Singh, Deputy Secretary of Religions for Peace International.

The Board meeting brought together representatives from the European structures of RfP: European National Interreligious Bodies (ENIB), European Council of Religious Leaders (ECRL), European Women of Faith Network (EWFN) and European Interfaith Youth Network (EIYN). Participants reflected on progress made, explored current challenges, and identified opportunities to strengthen interfaith collaboration across Europe. Discussions highlighted the importance of empowering national interreligious councils, women, youth, and religious leaders to play an active role in peacebuilding and promoting social inclusion.

The event was organized in close cooperation with RfP Finland (CORE Forum, Uskot-Foorumi), providing a dynamic platform for strategic dialogue and interfaith networking.

Highlighting the moral responsibility of faith communities, Prof. Genti Kruja stressed that religious leaders must actively speak out against injustice and conflict, advocating for peace, justice, and human dignity across Europe. “Religions have a vital role in promoting harmony, safeguarding our shared values, and nurturing a culture of sustainable peace through collective action,” he said.

Echoing this vision, Dr. Francis Kuria emphasized that the Shared Sacred Flourishing framework offers a holistic approach that goes beyond traditional economic or political measures. “It calls on all of us to honour the sacred in every life, foster inclusive communities, protect our environment, and build lasting peace. In Europe, this shared vision challenges us to collaborate more deeply, mend divisions, and strengthen social cohesion,” he noted.

The Board concluded the annual meeting of all structures with a joint press statement, reaffirming their commitment to advance a united vision for Europe, where religious communities work together to cultivate peace, justice, and shared responsibility for the common good.