The International Shield Organization (International Congress SHIELD) is committed to upholding the principles of religious freedom and peaceful coexistence as two fundamental pillars for building a balanced human society based on mutual respect, dialogue, and understanding between peoples and cultures.
Since its founding in 2011, the organization has worked to promote a culture of peace and tolerance, driven by the belief that respecting freedom of belief and religious diversity is at the heart of human dignity and a key component of justice and social stability.
Religious Freedom: A Fundamental Right
The International Shield Organization believes that religious freedom is not merely an individual right but a universal human principle ensuring freedom of thought, conscience, and belief for every person.
Respecting this right is essential for protecting societies from extremism and violence.
Through its human rights programs, the organization raises awareness about religious freedom and encourages governments and civil institutions to adopt policies that protect this right and promote religious tolerance in education, media, and society.
Peaceful Coexistence and Constructive Dialogue
The organization views peaceful coexistence as the first step toward lasting and sustainable peace.
Differences between religions and cultures should serve as bridges for cooperation, not sources of division.
Accordingly, the International Shield Organization promotes interfaith and intercultural dialogue as a means to foster mutual understanding and respect, recognizing humanitarian diplomacy as the optimal path to embedding these values globally.
The organization collaborates with religious and academic institutions across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa to organize conferences and intellectual forums aimed at building trust and combating hate speech.
Humanitarian Diplomacy in Action
Humanitarian diplomacy lies at the core of the organization’s fieldwork, founded on the belief that dialogue and respect are stronger than conflict and force.
Through its initiatives, the organization transforms disputes into opportunities for understanding and strengthens cooperation between communities through humanitarian and educational projects that promote tolerance and global citizenship.
This approach is exemplified by Dr. Saleh Muhamed Daher, the organization’s president, whose field and diplomatic work combine human rights advocacy with interfaith dialogue, fostering relationships of trust with religious and humanitarian leaders worldwide.
A Well-Deserved Honor for the President
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to religious understanding and peaceful coexistence, His Holiness Patriarch Filaret Denisenko, head of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, awarded Dr. Saleh Muhamed Daher the “Sacrifice and Love for Ukraine” medal during a formal ceremony at Saint Volodymyr Cathedral in Kyiv.
This honor acknowledges his humanitarian contributions, his role in promoting values of tolerance and peace, and his ongoing support for interfaith and humanitarian dialogue initiatives in Ukraine and beyond.
It is one of the highest ecclesiastical awards granted to individuals who have contributed to humanity and national unity, reflecting the Ukrainian Church’s recognition of the International Shield Organization’s mission linking human rights advocacy with humanitarian diplomacy based on mutual respect among religions and peoples.
A Steadfast Commitment to Humanity
The International Shield Organization remains unwavering in its principles, tirelessly working to defend human rights, uphold religious freedoms, and promote a culture of peace and tolerance among nations.
Its deep belief in the inherent value of every human being continues to drive all its efforts and initiatives, striving toward a world governed by justice, freedom, and human dignity for all.
Issued by: International Shield Organization – Media and International Relations Department
