Brussels, Belgium - The capital of Belgium and the European Union has been chosen as the host city of the Parliament of the World’s Religions in 2014. Brussels is a microcosm of the challenges and possibilities present in an increasingly multi-religious and multi-cultural continental society.

Christians in the European Union are divided among followers of Roman Catholicism, numerous Protestant denominations (especially in northern Europe), and Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic (in sout- eastern Europe). There are an estimated 13 million Muslims and more than a million Jews.

More than 10,000 people from diverse religious, spiritual and convictional traditions are expected to participate in Parliament in Brussels. More than 500 programs, workshops and dialogues will take place during the seven days, alongside music, dance, artistic exhibitions and related events hosted by religious communities and cultural institutions.

The first World’s Parliament of Religions was held in Chicago, USA in 1893. Four have taken place since then: in Chicago, USA (1993); Cape Town, South Africa (1999); Barcelona, Spain (2004); and Melbourne, Australia (2009). These periodic events are the world’s oldest and largest interreligious gatherings.

In Melbourne, Enrique Ledesma, Secretary General of UPF-Oceania, gave a presentation about UPF [see report]. At other sessions, Ambassadors for Peace from Australia, Canada, and Israel gave presentations about their work promoting interreligious understanding and respect.

For more information about plans for 2014 click here.