The HLRS Peace Award

The HLRS Peace Award is conferred annually by the Haifa Laboratory for Religious Studies (HLRS) at the University of Haifa. Presented during the HLRS Annual Symposium, the award recognizes individuals whose vision and work exemplify the values of peacebuilding, interreligious dialogue, and shared society.

Rooted in the unique cultural and religious diversity of Haifa, the HLRS Peace Award reflects the Laboratory’s mission to bring together religious leaders, scholars, and civic actors in the pursuit of mutual understanding and reconciliation. By honoring those whose lives and work embody these ideals, the award seeks to inspire hope and encourage communities across Israel and beyond to cultivate a future grounded in dialogue and partnership.

Past Recipients

  • 2023 – Amir Muhammad Sharif Odeh, leader of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in the Holy Land, recognized for his unwavering commitment to peace, interreligious engagement, and civic responsibility.
  • 2024 – Rabbi David Rosen, former International Director of Interreligious Affairs of the American Jewish Committee, honored for his decades of leadership in interfaith dialogue and his tireless efforts to advance reconciliation and understanding between faith communities worldwide.

2025 Honoree

On November 6, 2025, the HLRS Peace Award will be presented to His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, in recognition of his steadfast leadership in a time of great challenge, and his dedication to promoting peace, reconciliation, and the dignity of all peoples in the Holy Land.

A Lasting Vision

The HLRS Peace Award stands as a symbol of the power of dialogue, respect, and cooperation across boundaries of faith and culture. Each year’s recipient embodies a living example of these values, serving as a beacon for future generations committed to building bridges of peace.