Cardinal Tolentino Appointed to 2026 Zayed Award Judging Committee

ABU DHABI, July 8, 2025: Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça, Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, has been appointed to serve on the judging committee of the 2026 Zayed Award for Human Fraternity.

The award, which carries a USD 1 million prize, was established in February 2019, following Pope Francis’ historic meeting with the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and the pair's publication of the joint Document on Human Fraternity.

The signing of the document took place in the United Arab Emirates, and the country now sponsors the prize, which is named in honour of its founder, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

The Zayed Award recognises individuals and groups who have made outstanding contributions to advancing human fraternity, promoting peaceful coexistence, and championing the values of tolerance and solidarity. The award can go to individuals and organisations of any background, religion, or nationality.

Organisations

The prizewinners are selected by an independent jury, whose composition varies from year to year. Among its members, there is always an individual selected by the Pope, an individual selected by the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, and an individual selected by the Secretary-General of the United Nations.

The judging panel for the 2026 edition includes prominent Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF; Charles Michel, former President of the European Council and Prime Minister of Belgium; Moussa Faki Mahamat, former Chairperson of the African Union Commission and Prime Minister of Chad; Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Administration of the President of Uzbekistan; and Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Zayed Award.

In a statement, Cardinal Tolentino said that his appointment was “part of the precious legacy of His Holiness Pope Francis, who inspired the establishment of the award and was an honorary recipient.”

“I accept this responsibility bestowed upon me by Pope Francis,” the Cardinal continued, “to honour those putting into practice the values of human fraternity. In a spirit of service and obedience to Pope Leo, I look forward to reviewing nominations and to becoming familiar with so many people who are making a difference around the world.”

The Zayed Award continues to serve as a testament to the growing collaboration between the Vatican and the UAE, particularly in their shared commitment to promoting human fraternity.

By Joseph Tulloch

Courtesy: Vatican News