The City of Aachen's Dialogue of Religions working group is committed to peaceful coexistence across all religious boundaries. In doing so, the working group not only focuses on Aachen, but also observes developments worldwide. In view of a global time of great unrest and uncertainty, all members of the Dialogue of Religions in Aachen have drawn up a joint statement in order to campaign for a peaceful, just and humane future.

On Wednesday, March 25, the members met at Aachen City Hall, where they were welcomed by Lord Mayor Michael Ziemons. "The dialog between religions is a fundamental foundation of our urban society. Religion must never be misused to incite hatred, violence or extremism. We want to take action against this together. Our cooperation creates trust, promotes mutual respect and is indispensable for the peaceful coexistence of all people in Aachen," said Ziemons.

The statement in full:

Statement by the Dialogue of Religions Working Group of the City of Aachen on the current global situation

The world is in a time of great unrest and uncertainty. Wars, violence, social divisions, social injustice and the loss of trust in democratic and humanitarian values are dominating the news and putting a strain on people's coexistence across national and religious borders.

As the Dialogue of Religions Working Group of the City of Aachen, we express our deep concern about these developments. At the same time, we reaffirm our common conviction: Regardless of religious or ideological affiliation, freedom, human dignity and the right to live in security and peace are inviolable. They form the foundation of every just and sustainable society.

All religious traditions that are in dialog with one another share central values: respect for every human being, responsibility for one another, a commitment to social justice and the power of love, compassion and reconciliation. These values are more urgent today than ever. They call on us to resolutely oppose exclusion, hatred and violence and instead strengthen understanding, solidarity and mutual appreciation.

Dialogue is particularly important in times of global crises. Peace does not begin abstractly, but concretely - on the ground, in our cities, neighborhoods, communities and everyday encounters. Here in Aachen, we also bear responsibility for respectful and solidary coexistence. We do not see different religious and cultural influences as a separation, but as an enrichment of our common life.

Local interfaith dialog can build bridges, break down prejudices and create trust. It thrives on listening, respect and the willingness to respect differences. This attitude cannot be taken for granted, but is a daily task that we must face together.

We call on all people in our city not to be led by fear, resignation or indifference. Each and every individual can contribute to a climate of openness, charity and justice in their own environment. Small steps of human interaction are an effective sign against the desolation of our time.

As the working group Dialogue of Religions of the City of Aachen, we stand for exchange, understanding and joint commitment - here locally and in connection with the world - for a peaceful, just and humane future.

The Dialogue of Religions Working Group of the City of Aachen