In an inspiring display of unity and resolve, Jewish and Muslim leaders representing 11 denominations gathered at Buckingham Palace to sign the historic Drumlanrig Accords—a document that promises to reshape interfaith relations across the United Kingdom. The ceremony, held at Spencer House, saw faith figures from five Islamic groups alongside the Chief Rabbi and prominent representatives from the Reform, Liberal, S&P Sephardi, and Masorti movements present the Accord to His Majesty.
The accords come at a crucial time, following a period of heightened interfaith strain after the 7 October terror attacks and the subsequent conflict between Israel and Hamas. In response to these challenges, for the first time in UK history, these leaders participated in a two-day retreat at Drumlanrig Castle in Scotland. The retreat, organized by Dr. Sayed Razawi—the chief imam of Scotland—served as a platform to forge a future built on shared values, reconciliation, and social responsibility.
During the retreat, leaders engaged in extensive dialogue aimed at healing the wounds of division that global tensions and local conflicts have inflicted upon their communities. Initiated by one-on-one talks between Dr. Razawi and Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, the year-long discussions culminated in an accord that reflects a mutual commitment to combat rising Islamophobia, antisemitism, and societal polarization.
Hailing the day as “historic,” Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis told the King, “It isn’t easy for either community but we’re up for it and believe it’s the only way.” Imam Qari Asim, chair of the Mosques and Imams Advisory Council, expressed deep gratitude for the King’s enduring support for interfaith ties. In his remarks, His Majesty emphasized that the true measure of the accord’s success would be its ongoing implementation, particularly through the establishment of a Muslim-Jewish Leadership Council to oversee joint projects and foster reconciliation during times of tension.
The Drumlanrig Accords outline an ambitious framework for collaboration, including the creation of four specialized committees:
- Educational Collaboration Committee: To promote dialogue in schools and communal spaces, increase faith literacy, and dispel misconceptions about Islam and Judaism.
- Civic Engagement and Joint Charitable Projects Committee: To launch initiatives addressing societal inequities, such as food insecurity, homelessness, and the climate crisis.
- University and Campus Outreach Committee: To encourage dialogue, build relationships, and counter prejudice on campuses.
- Religious Freedoms Committee: To devise collaborative solutions for safeguarding religious practices.
Organizers stressed that the initiative is apolitical, driven solely by a deep, enduring commitment to strengthening relationships, fostering mutual understanding, and working together for the common good. “Muslim and Jewish communities around the world share a profound spiritual heritage,” noted one of the signatories. “Both traditions are rooted in monotheism, the sanctity of life, and a commitment to justice.”
Reflecting on the challenges of recent times, Imam Qari Asim remarked, “The future does not have to be plagued with fear, violence, and devastation. Faith leaders in the UK had a choice: either be bystanders or stand up for the sanctity of life and a commitment to justice.” His words resonated deeply as the accords were signed, symbolizing a united front against divisions that have long threatened societal cohesion.
The agreement has been hailed by many as a beacon of hope, paving the way for an era of constructive dialogue and collaborative action. As Rabbi Charley Baginsky, CEO of Liberal Judaism, asserted, “The importance of this moment cannot be overstated. We must learn how to hold a diversity of voices within our shared religious values and, even when we disagree, do so agreeably—listening and learning from one another.”
With plans already underway to operationalize the accord through dedicated leadership and committee structures, the Drumlanrig Accords stand as a powerful testament to the potential of interfaith cooperation in the United Kingdom. The coming years will reveal the long-term impact of these historic commitments, but for now, the accords offer a renewed promise of unity, resilience, and hope for communities across the nation.