Event
Geneva, Switzerland – May 28, 2025 – The Khalili Foundation played a pivotal role in a groundbreaking high-level event on refugee resilience hosted by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in partnership with the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace (GCTP). The event, “Fostering Refugee Resilience: A Shared Responsibility,” brought together distinguished international leaders, policymakers, and humanitarian experts at UNHCR headquarters in Geneva.
Advancing Peacebuilding Through Cultural Understanding
Executive Director Waqas Ahmed represented the Khalili Foundation on the prestigious panel addressing “Peacebuilding, culture, and social cohesion” – a theme that resonates deeply with the Foundation’s mission to promote cross-cultural understanding and dialogue. In his remarks, Ahmed articulated a compelling vision for sustainable peace that transcends traditional humanitarian approaches.
A Holistic Approach to Sustainable Peace
Ahmed’s presentation underscored the Khalili Foundation’s commitment to multistakeholder, systems thinking in addressing complex humanitarian challenges. He highlighted how sustainable peace requires the integration of diverse perspectives and collaborative efforts across sectors – from government institutions and international organizations to faith communities and cultural institutions.
“Faith has historically served as both a source of resilience for displaced populations and a foundation for peacebuilding initiatives,” Ahmed noted. “When we combine the transformative power of faith with the unifying force of art, we create pathways for healing that address not just immediate needs, but the deeper human connections essential for long-term integration and prosperity.”
A Distinguished Platform for Global Dialogue
The event featured an impressive array of international dignitaries, including Ms. Ruvendrini Menikdiwela, Assistant High Commissioner for Protection at UNHCR, and H.E. Ahmed bin Mohamed Al Jarwane, President of the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace. The gathering culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between UNHCR and GCTP, symbolizing renewed commitment to collaborative refugee protection efforts.
Ahmed shared the peacebuilding panel with other distinguished speakers including Ms. Jin Dawood, recipient of the Europe Nansen Award and founder of Peace Therapist, and Prof. Mariateresa Garrido, Coordinator of the Doctorate Programme at the University of Peace.
Reinforcing the Foundation’s Global Mission
The Khalili Foundation’s participation in this high-level forum reinforces its position as a leading voice in promoting intercultural dialogue and understanding. The organization’s unique approach – combining artistic heritage preservation with contemporary peacebuilding initiatives – offers innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges.
“Refugee resilience is not just about survival – it’s about thriving, contributing, and enriching the communities that provide sanctuary,” Ahmed concluded. “Through art, faith, and collaborative action, we can transform the narrative from one of displacement to one of empowerment and mutual prosperity.”
Looking Forward
The insights shared at this Geneva gathering will inform ongoing initiatives within the Khalili Foundation’s programming, particularly in areas where cultural preservation intersects with humanitarian action. The Foundation remains committed to leveraging its global network and resources to support refugee communities while building bridges of understanding across diverse societies.
The event also featured the official launch of “Fostering Refugee Resilience: Global Perspectives on Integration, Inclusion, and Prosperity,” a comprehensive publication that will serve as a valuable resource for policymakers and practitioners working in refugee protection and integration.
The Khalili Foundation continues to champion the transformative power of art and culture in building more inclusive and peaceful societies. For more information about the Foundation’s work in promoting intercultural dialogue and supporting vulnerable communities, contact director@khalili.foundation
