LYON 2026

Under the auspices of the Multireligious Institute of Mercy and building on the momentum of its founding, several stakeholders from religious, academic, civic, and community sectors have launched a comprehensive initiative focused on interreligious and interfaith dialogue. Against a backdrop of social tensions, fragmentation of community ties, and distrust of institutions, this project builds upon the legacy of the Abu Dhabi Declaration on Human Fraternity (2019) and various European and local initiatives promoting interconviction dialogue.

Hosting this event will:

• to support an initiative aimed at social cohesion and the prevention of community tensions;
• to foster a space for reflection on contemporary republican values;
• to encourage youth participation in initiatives promoting collective responsibility.

The event has three main objectives:

• Structured Interfaith Dialogue

To foster encounters between Jews, Christians, and Muslims, as well as young academics, entrepreneurs, and engaged citizens, and to create a space for dialogue and reconciliation that transcends communal divisions.

• Fostering a Dialogue Between Republican and European Values

To explore the values of the Republic and the European Union through Abrahamic religious traditions and various forms of social engagement.

• Issuance of a Joint Statement

Identify fundamental points of convergence to reinvigorate a collective republican dynamic that does not stray from the faith and values it is meant to uphold, and draft a collective declaration co-signed by the participants.

This event is intended for:

• people from Jewish, Christian, and Muslim traditions
• students and academics
• young entrepreneurs
• community leaders and engaged citizens
• public institutions and institutional representatives
• foundations and partners in interfaith and civic dialogue.

The event will take place over a weekend and will center on:

• an opening session (concert and panel discussion) in the auditorium
• thematic workshops in small groups
• a final session for collaborative drafting and adoption of a joint declaration
• a presentation and closing session open to the public.