New York, August 30, 2026 (Yes Punjab News) Religious leaders from 30 countries have pledged to oppose hatred, defend communities facing persecution and ensure that artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies remain focused on serving humanity.
The commitments were unveiled at a ‘Universal Oneness’ gathering at Madison Square Garden in New York, attended by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat and representatives of several major faiths.
More than 200 religious representatives contributed to a call to action following discussions at a conference held earlier on Saturday.
The declaration acknowledged the ability of faith to promote healing and reconciliation while recognising that religion has also been used to deepen divisions and justify violence.
“We will reject the use of religion to justify hatred, humiliation, dehumanisation or violence and teach that deep conviction can coexist with respect for those who believe differently,” it said.
The leaders said the commitments came at a time of armed conflicts, displacement and growing mistrust, with digital platforms allowing hatred to spread rapidly across borders.
They affirmed the dignity of every individual and stressed that unity does not require people to abandon their religious beliefs or identities.
“Unity does not require conformity. Conviction does not require contempt,” the declaration said.
Under five broad commitments, the religious leaders pledged to examine the teachings and practices of their own communities, speak out against persecution and strengthen relationships across religious and cultural boundaries.
“Peace begins with the courage to hold our own communities accountable,” the declaration said.
The leaders also committed to bringing young people from different backgrounds together before conflicts or crises occur. “The person we know is harder to hate,” they said.
The declaration called for joint efforts to assist people affected by hunger, illness, displacement and persecution, stressing that interfaith cooperation should be demonstrated through action.
On artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies, the leaders said human progress must remain focused on human dignity, freedom, truth and meaningful human connections.
Each participating leader was asked to undertake at least one concrete initiative, including bringing divided communities together, confronting hatred, creating opportunities for young people or working alongside another faith community.
Participants also tied rakhis on one another as symbols of connection, care and mutual responsibility, extending the tradition beyond families to friends, neighbours and communities.
Bhagwat has served as RSS Sarsanghchalak, or chief, since 2009. Founded in 1925, the organisation is currently marking its centenary.
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