In October 2010, the UN General Assembly designated the first week of February each year as World Interfaith Harmony Week, an initiative proposed by King Abdullah II of Jordan. The idea rests on the conviction that mutual understanding and interfaith dialogue form an essential dimension of a culture of peace. The observance is built on a simple but powerful premise: that the major religions of the world share common values of love of God (or the good) and love of neighbor, despite differences in doctrine and ritual. During this week, communities, universities, and religious institutions around the globe are encouraged to hold voluntary events that bring together people of different faiths in genuine dialogue, from academic panels to grassroots interfaith gatherings. The week carries renewed significance amid rising hate speech and extremism in many parts of the world, serving as a reminder that religious diversity can be a source of social cohesion and strength rather than division. It complements the UN's broader Alliance of Civilizations agenda and encourages ordinary citizens, not just religious leaders, to take an active part in building bridges of understanding.