Potsdam, Germany – July 15-16, 2025

The Presidency Board of Religions for Peace Europe convened on July 15–16 at the Potsdam University. The two-day meeting, led by President of RfP Europe Prof. Genti Kruja, brought together interfaith leaders from across Europe to evaluate ongoing efforts and outline future priorities for peacebuilding and interreligious collaboration.

Key discussions focused on revitalizing youth and women’s engagement, enhancing interfaith dialogue, and strengthening governance across European National Interreligious Bodies, European Council of Religious Leaders, European Women of Faith Network, and European Interfaith Youth Network.

The two-day meeting was attended by the presidents and leaders of the co-committees, including Bishop Kari Mangrud Alvsvåg, President of ECRL; Mrs. Rkia Tiar, President of EWFN; Mrs. Lejla Hasandedic–Dapo, President of EIYN (online); Prof. Dr. Elisabeth Naurath, Vice President of ENIB; Dr. Luigi De Salvia, President of the General Assembly of RfP Europe;  Rev., Dr. Maria Leppäkari, Secretary General of RfP Europe; and Mr. Martin Affolderbach from RfP Germany. The meeting, held at the University of Potsdam, was hosted by Prof. Johann Ev. Hafner and Dr. Arhan Kardaş, lecturers at the university. Minutes of the meeting were written by Atdhe Mehmeti, a student from Kosovo.

In addition to strategic planning, the Board addressed the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, expressing deep concern over the devastating toll on civilians, particularly children and women. The Presidency Board issued a united and urgent appeal to the international community and faith leaders worldwide to act immediately to stop the violence, ensure humanitarian access, and uphold human dignity. Religions for Peace Europe calls for an immediate ceasefire and the restoration of peace through dialogue and respect for human rights.

The Board also recalled the significant role of Religions for Peace globally and in Europe over the decades, highlighting its tireless work in promoting peace, dialogue, and cooperation among religious communities. This year marks a special milestone – the 55th anniversary of the founding of Religions for Peace – an important jubilee that reaffirms the organization’s longstanding commitment to multi-religious action for peace.

Major upcoming initiatives include an Interfaith Forum in Finland in September, a Nobel Peace Award symposium in December 2025 in Norway and an Religions for Peace Europe International Conference in Peace Building in 2026 in Strasbourg.

The Board reaffirmed its commitment to a united and active RfP Europe, rooted in dialogue, inclusion, and shared responsibility. As Prof. Kruja concluded, “Peace is a process-and our strength lies in working together.”