(Commonwealth)_ The Zayed Prize for Human Fraternity is an annual recognition awarded to individuals and groups who work selflessly to bridge divides and foster genuine human connections. Established in 2019, the award was inspired by the joint Document on Human Fraternity signed by Pope Francis and Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayyeb, the Grand Imam of Al Azhar. As the world prepares for the 2025 edition of the award, Vatican News spoke with Patricia Scotland – Secretary-General of the Commonwealth and member of the independent jury – about the significance of the prize and the rigorous selection process behind it.
Human Fraternity Beyond Tolerance
Scotland emphasized that human fraternity means more than just tolerance. “Fraternity means understanding that we are one family and that our humanity is more fundamental than everything else,” she explained. The award, given annually on February 4 – the UN-recognized International Day of Human Fraternity – celebrates those who embody these ideals.
The Selection Process: Identifying Beacons of Hope
Serving as a judge for such a prestigious award is no small responsibility, and for Scotland, the experience has been both an honor and a challenge. “The Commonwealth represents 56 countries, home to 2.7 billion people, 60% of whom are under the age of 30. Our shared values are enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter, which strongly aligns with the principles of the Zayed Award,” she noted.
The selection process spanned several months and involved meticulous evaluation. Hundreds of applications were reviewed, with candidates being shortlisted based on their impact on humanity. “We sought exemplary people and groups who truly demonstrate human fraternity, equality, and inclusivity,” Scotland said. The final decision required in-depth analysis of each candidate’s contributions to society. “We asked ourselves: What had they done? How had they made life richer, better, and more meaningful? Were they beacons of hope who could inspire others to follow in their footsteps?”
The Role of Faith and Moral Responsibility
For Scotland, her Catholic faith played a significant role in her participation. She reflected on how the award’s first recipients included Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al Azhar, two figures who exemplify unity and compassion. “It’s incredibly powerful that these two holy men came together to emphasize love, understanding, and respect that goes beyond mere tolerance,” she said.
Human fraternity, according to Scotland, is not just about acknowledging differences but about embracing a shared humanity. “If you’re Catholic, you believe that every single human being is made in the image of God. That sanctity, that beauty of life, must be preserved, along with the planet we inhabit,” she explained. This belief resonated deeply with her as she contributed to the selection of this year’s awardees.
A Special Meeting with Pope Francis
One of the most memorable moments of the selection process was the opportunity for the jury to meet with Pope Francis. Scotland recalled the experience with joy and reverence. “It was a great honor. The entire panel of judges visited His Holiness to discuss the award and our work. And we also got to wish him a happy birthday!” For Scotland, meeting Pope Francis was reaffirming. “He has worked so hard, and he himself embodies what so many aspire to be. His wisdom and compassion are always inspiring,” she shared.
The Importance of the Zayed Prize in Today’s World
As the world grapples with increasing division, awards like the Zayed Prize for Human Fraternity serve as powerful reminders of the need for unity. Scotland emphasized that the recipients are more than just awardees; they are symbols of hope and resilience. “These individuals and organizations remind us that true fraternity is about working together, across cultures and faiths, to build a better world.” With the 2025 Zayed Prize for Human Fraternity set to be awarded in Abu Dhabi, the ceremony will once again highlight the extraordinary efforts of those striving to create harmony in an often-divided world.
Scotland’s reflections underscore the significance of this mission: to uplift those who dedicate their lives to fostering understanding, compassion, and human connection. As the countdown to February 4 begins, the global community eagerly anticipates celebrating this year’s laureates – champions of fraternity who continue to inspire and transform lives worldwide.
