Each year, during the first week of February, communities around the globe observe World Interfaith Harmony Week – a United Nations initiative that encourages goodwill, dialogue, and cooperation among people of all faiths and philosophies. While it’s a global observance, its message resonates strongly here in Australia, where multiculturalism and religious diversity are foundational to modern society. World Interfaith Harmony Week was formally established in 2010 when the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution proposed by King Abdullah II of Jordan. The idea grew from the “A Common Word” initiative, which highlighted shared values among the world’s major faith traditions – particularly the central teachings of love of God and love of neighbour or, for those with non-religious views, “love of the good”. Recognising the need for a dedicated space to promote understanding, the UN unanimously supported the proposal. Since 2011, the first week of February has been devoted to activities that foster peaceful relations across faiths and cultures.