MWL chief delivers Stanford lecture on values amid global ideological conflicts
Saudi Gazette report
CALIFORNIA — The Secretary-General of the Muslim World League (MWL) and President of the Association of Muslim Scholars, Sheikh Dr. Mohammed Al-Issa, delivered a keynote lecture at Stanford University titled 'Values in the Face of Contemporary Conflicts.'
The lecture examined the root causes and dangers of ideological—both religious and intellectual—conflicts, emphasizing the importance of understanding, coexistence, and collaboration among diverse belief systems.
Dr. Al-Issa distinguished between natural religious and intellectual differences that reflect life's reality and the more destructive ideological clashes that divide societies and nations, offering both diagnoses and proposed solutions.
The event included an overview of international law and humanitarian law, with an analysis of their application in modern global crises.
Dr. Al-Issa also outlined the MWL's global initiatives aimed at promoting peace, social cohesion, and value-based development, and provided an expanded discussion on Islamic principles, underlining the distinction between authentic Islamic teachings and misrepresentations by individuals or groups.
A special emphasis was placed on the Makkah Charter, highlighting its Islamic consensus, foundational vision, and universal values.
Following the lecture, Dr. Al-Issa engaged in an open Q&A session that included surveys and dialogue with the audience.
In addition, Dr. Al-Issa met with several Silicon Valley business leaders to discuss topics related to the digital economy, Islamic economic regulations, AI ethics, and charitable work as tools for combating poverty.
He also reviewed projects presented by 25 Stanford undergraduate students inspired by their recent visit to Makkah and Umrah during Ramadan.
These initiatives, part of the 'Establishing the Muslim Life' program, explored ways to implement the values of the Makkah Charter globally.
The event was attended by faculty, students, and invited guests from Stanford University.
Many participants praised the depth and relevance of the lecture and proposed that the content be expanded into a university-published book.
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