By Abdullahi Yusuf

Makkah will host the second edition of the international conference “Building Bridges Between Islamic Schools of Thought and Sects” on Thursday, under the patronage of Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz.

Organized by the Muslim World League, the event will bring together leading Islamic scholars and muftis from across sects and schools of thought, representing more than 90 countries.

The conference aims to foster greater Islamic unity by moving beyond traditional dialogues to practical initiatives.

Discussions will focus on implementing programs outlined in the Building Bridges Between Islamic Sects charter, coordinating efforts to address shared challenges, and establishing structured initiatives that promote moderation while countering sectarian rhetoric and practices.

The conference will reinforce Islamic solidarity across sects while reaffirming the achievements of last year’s edition in Makkah.

It aims to expand the Muslim coalition initiative through structured programs derived from keynote speeches, panel discussions, and anticipated recommendations.

The inaugural conference and its unifying charter embodied Islam’s wisdom and inclusivity, laying the foundation for coordinated efforts among moderate Islamic forces—regardless of sect or school of thought—for the benefit of the Muslim world. It also sought to counter extremism and radicalism, which have distorted the true image of Islam.

This year’s edition continues to uphold a shared vision rooted in unity and cooperation. Scholars from across the Islamic world will gather at Islam’s holiest site to foster deeper solidarity, moving beyond historical apprehensions toward a future defined by brotherhood and mutual respect.

The first conference concluded with a landmark Building Bridges document comprising 28 articles focused on tolerance and inter-sectarian cohesion.

Participants pledged to uphold its principles and integrate them within their academic institutions and national communities while respecting local laws and international regulations.

They also urged religious bodies, societal leaders, and national institutions to endorse and support the charter’s objectives.