In today’s rapidly shifting global landscape, we are witnessing an alarming erosion of values and ethics. This moral decline poses a direct threat to social harmony, international security, and the foundations of peaceful coexistence.

The challenges arising from this deterioration are manifold, affecting not only interpersonal relationships but also how nations interact on the global stage. It is a stark reminder that ethical decay does not exist in a vacuum; it undermines the very fabric of societies, creating fertile ground for discord, injustice, and extremism.

Decision-makers, religious leaders, and individuals with a sense of moral responsibility cannot afford to stand idly by as this crisis unfolds. They must not remain passive observers, watching as the world drifts further away from the universal principles of human dignity, compassion, and mutual respect. Instead, they must act collectively to halt this downward spiral and reinvigorate the moral compass that has long guided humanity.

The root causes of this ethical deterioration are complex and multifaceted. Globalisation, technological advancements, and rapid urbanisation have brought unprecedented opportunities but also challenges that have strained traditional value systems. The rise of materialism, consumerism, and individualism has led to a weakening of communal bonds and a disregard for shared responsibilities. Digital platforms, while enabling connectivity, have also amplified the spread of harmful ideologies, hate speech, and misinformation, further eroding societal cohesion.

Amid these challenges, the absence of a unified global effort to reaffirm and uphold ethical principles is striking. While international organisations and state actors focus on economic growth and national security, the moral dimension is often relegated to the sidelines. This oversight has left a vacuum, one that extremist ideologies and divisive narratives are all too eager to fill.

Religious institutions are uniquely positioned to address this crisis, given their historical role as custodians of moral and ethical guidance. Among these institutions, Al-Azhar, the Dar Al-Ifta, the General Secretariat for Fatwa Authorities Worldwide, and the Coptic Church establishment stand out as beacons of moderation, wisdom, and global credibility. With their extensive networks of scholars, muftis, and religious leaders, these institutions have the capacity to mobilise a global effort to revive and promote ethical values.

Their credibility lies not only in their rich intellectual heritage but also in their proven commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue, combating extremism, and advocating for social justice. These institutions have consistently demonstrated that religious values, far from being relics of the past, are essential tools for addressing contemporary challenges. In a world increasingly divided along ideological, cultural, and political lines, they offer a unifying vision rooted in shared human principles.

The time is ripe for these institutions to lead a global campaign that underscores the necessity of adhering to ethical and religious values. This campaign should not be confined to religious communities alone; it must reach policymakers, educators, business leaders, and civil society organisations. The message should be clear: ethics and values are not optional in our quest for progress. They are foundational.

But success will depend on more than just vision; it will require action, commitment, and the willingness to engage with diverse stakeholders. By rising to this challenge, these institutions can help steer humanity towards a future where progress is measured not only by economic or technological advancements but also by our ability to uphold the principles that define our shared humanity.

In the words of the Quran, “Indeed, God commands justice, doing good, and generosity towards relatives, and He forbids what is shameful, blameworthy, and oppressive” (Quran 16:90). These timeless principles serve as a reminder that the path to true prosperity lies in adherence to values that elevate and unify us all. It is a call that we must heed, not only for our sake but also for the generations yet to come.

The writer is a senior adviser to the Grand Mufti of Egypt.

* A version of this article appears in print in the 5 December, 2024 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly