As the President of the GCTP, I See My Role as a Bridge-Builder, Fostering Entrepreneurship and Business Collaboration across Diverse Cultures and Regions: H.E. Ahmed Bin Mohamed Al Jarwan

H.E. Ahmed Bin Mohamed Al Jarwan, raised on the values of peaceful co-existence, has emerged as one of the most influential global leaders in promoting tolerance and peace. He is the president and founder of the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace (GCTP), headquartered in Malta since 2017. In addition, he holds several prominent positions, including President of the Arab Experts Union (since 2018), President of the Executive Office of the Arab Federations' Forum (since 2021), President of the Paris Forum for Development and Peace (since 2021) and President of the Fundación for Islamic Culture and Religious Tolerance (since 2022).

Mr. Al Jarwan's remarkable career in diplomacy and leadership spans decades. He gained significant recognition during his tenure as President of the Arab Parliament (2012–2016), where he skillfully navigated the complexities of regional politics. His vision for a unified Arab voice saw him excel as a leader, communicator, and mentor, deeply transforming the Arab Parliament both regionally and internationally.

His work in women's empowerment, youth engagement, and reconstruction projects in the Arab world has been widely acknowledged, particularly for his efforts to strengthen human rights and combat instability.

Mr. Al Jarwan founded the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace in 2017, alongside eight distinguished international figures with a shared vision of promoting peace, tolerance, and the fight against extremism. The GCTP's mission is to develop international legal norms and foster collaboration across regions to advance peace. Under his leadership, the GCTP launched the International Parliament for Tolerance and Peace (IPTP), with sessions held across the globe, including Malta, Albania, Argentina, Ethiopia, Costa Rica, Montenegro, Colombia, the Union of the Comoros, the UAE, and Morocco. He also spearheaded the creation of the General Assembly for Tolerance and Peace (GATP), which has hosted several significant sessions focused on education, youth, sustainable development, implementing the Human Fraternity Document, and promoting tolerance.

A man of conviction, intercultural awareness, and diplomatic prowess, Mr. Al Jarwan has successfully garnered membership for the IPTP from more than 100 countries, while over 50 academic institutions and NGOs have joined the GATP. His advocacy led to the IPTP being recognized as a permanent observer at the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), a significant milestone that amplifies the voice of peace and tolerance in global parliamentary platforms.

Mr. Al Jarwan continues to be a champion of tolerance, tirelessly working to combat discrimination, extremism, and racism. His visionary leadership is reflected in his numerous contributions to global peacebuilding, making him a key figure in shaping the future of peace and diplomacy on an international scale.

We, at SME Business Review, reached out to H.E. Ahmed Bin Mohamed Al Jarwan for an interview, seeking his insights on global peace initiatives, his leadership in promoting tolerance, and the future of international diplomacy in the face of rising challenges. Here’s what he had to say.

Interview Excerpts

What key moments in your journey have profoundly influenced your approach to leadership and entrepreneurship?

Several key moments have profoundly influenced my approach to leadership and entrepreneurship. One of the most defining milestones was founding the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace in 2017. Through this initiative, I focused on fostering global dialogue and tolerance, which highlighted the importance of building platforms for peace and collaboration. The success of the International Parliament for Tolerance and Peace, a core body of the GCTP, has been particularly impactful. The IPTP brings together parliamentarians from over 100 countries to promote peace, justice, and sustainable development. It also includes standing committees dedicated to youth and women empowerment as well as sustainable development, which reflect my belief in inclusive leadership that promotes equality and long-term global goals. The establishment of the General Assembly for Tolerance and Peace, which brings together NGOs, academic institutions, and individuals to promote tolerance and peace through education and advocacy, was another critical milestone. It taught me that leadership is about creating platforms where others can contribute to the mission of peace and collaboration by practice, international programs and activities. 

Serving as the President of the Arab Experts Union since 2018 has allowed me to focus on addressing the challenges within the Arab entrepreneurial ecosystem, particularly in policy, infrastructure, and education. My role in empowering experts and entrepreneurs in the region has reinforced my belief in the importance of building networks that drive sustainable development and innovation.

As President of the Executive Office of the Arab Federations’ Forum since 2021, I have worked on strengthening regional partnerships, further emphasizing the importance of collaborative leadership. This role has shown me that success comes from uniting diverse sectors and organizations to achieve common goals that benefit the entire region. Additionally, serving as the Chairman of the Committee of Refugees under the Arab League has given me the opportunity to address humanitarian issues on a large scale, particularly in supporting refugee rights and finding solutions for displaced communities across the Arab world.

In addition, my leadership as the President of the Paris Forum for Peace and Development since 2021 has provided another avenue to advocate for tolerance, peace, and sustainable development globally.

More recently, in 2022, I became the President of the Fundación for Islamic Culture and Religious Tolerance, which has reinforced my commitment to promoting cultural and religious understanding. This complements the GCTP’s mission by advocating for tolerance in both entrepreneurship and global leadership, encouraging an inclusive and sustainable global economy.

These experiences have collectively shaped my leadership philosophy, emphasizing collaboration, inclusivity, youth and women empowerment, and sustainability, all of which guide my efforts in entrepreneurship, diplomacy, and peacebuilding.

How do you leverage your position as President of the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace to encourage entrepreneurship and business collaboration across different cultures and regions?

As the President of the GCTP, I see my role as a bridge-builder, fostering entrepreneurship and business collaboration across diverse cultures and regions. The GCTP provides a global platform where tolerance, understanding, and peace are at the core of all initiatives. In this environment, entrepreneurs from different backgrounds can come together, exchange ideas, and create solutions that address both local and global challenges.

One of the ways I leverage my position is by creating inclusive forums and conferences that bring together government officials, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders from various regions. These events not only focus on promoting peace and tolerance but also highlight the power of economic cooperation in building sustainable communities. By showcasing successful cross-border collaborations, I aim to inspire others to engage in international partnerships that leverage cultural diversity to foster innovation and growth.

Through the IPTP, I work with parliamentary leaders from over 100 countries to ensure that policies are in place to support entrepreneurial ventures, especially those that promote social good. By aligning these efforts with global trends, such as sustainable development and innovation, we create an ecosystem where businesses and entrepreneurs are encouraged to collaborate and explore opportunities across different sectors and regions.

Moreover, the GCTP's partnerships with international organizations and national parliaments allow us to facilitate direct business collaborations. These partnerships create pathways for entrepreneurs to access new markets, share best practices, and build joint ventures. In particular, our work with regional economic bodies helps ensure that the entrepreneurial spirit thrives in both established and emerging economies.

Finally, by promoting a culture of tolerance, we break down the barriers that often limit business collaboration. Entrepreneurs thrive in environments where ideas can flow freely, without cultural or political restrictions. My position allows me to advocate for policies that create such an environment, where business and innovation can flourish regardless of cultural or regional differences.

Business Diplomacy and Cross-Cultural Collaboration are at the heart of our efforts to foster collaboration. The GCTP facilitates this by bringing together parliamentarians, Academicians, NGOs, Business leaders and peacebuilders from over the world  to promote peace, justice, and sustainable development, providing a framework where entrepreneurs can collaborate across borders. The GCTP ensures that  youth and women empowerment and sustainable development are part of the business dialogue.

Another important element of the GCTP’s work is its commitment to promoting the principles of the Human Fraternity Document. We have organized several significant sessions related to this document, which focuses on fostering peace and understanding between different cultures and religions. These sessions, held in global locations such as Spain, the UAE, and Malta, emphasize how tolerance and cultural understanding are critical for building sustainable, collaborative business ecosystems. By promoting the values outlined in the Human Fraternity Document, we create a foundation of mutual respect, which is essential for entrepreneurship across different cultures.

The GCTP is also deeply involved in publications that spread the message of tolerance and peace. These publications, including books and research papers, provide guidance and insight into how we can contribute to global peacebuilding efforts. Our publications serve as a resource for business leaders looking to integrate social responsibility into their ventures.

In short, my leadership at the GCTP focuses on fostering global cooperation, business diplomacy, global awareness, encouraging cultural understanding, and creating a framework where entrepreneurship and business collaborations can thrive across borders, with the ultimate goal of building a more tolerant and prosperous world.

Could you share some of the key challenges you faced in your journey, particularly in addressing gaps within the Arab region's entrepreneurial ecosystem?

In my journey as a leader and entrepreneur, I have faced several key challenges, particularly when addressing gaps within the Arab region's entrepreneurial ecosystem. These challenges span across various aspects such as infrastructure, policy frameworks, education, and access to capital, but each has offered valuable lessons in how to drive change and create opportunities.

One of the foremost challenges has been the lack of cohesive policies and regulations that support entrepreneurship. In many Arab countries, bureaucratic hurdles can slow down business formation and growth, creating a less agile environment for entrepreneurs. Navigating these complexities requires close cooperation between the public and private sectors. As the President of the Arab Parliament and now of the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace, I have worked extensively to promote dialogue between governments and entrepreneurs to reduce red tape and create policies that foster innovation and investment.

Another challenge is the limited access to capital for startups and small businesses in the region. Many entrepreneurs, especially in underserved areas, struggle to secure the funding needed to scale their ventures. This is further compounded by a cautious investment culture, where investors often shy away from high-risk, high-reward opportunities. To address this, I have focused on creating platforms for cross-border investments and public-private partnerships, encouraging international venture capitalists and regional investors to recognize the immense potential within the Arab world.

The gap in entrepreneurial education is another major obstacle. In many parts of the Arab region, traditional education systems have not fully adapted to equip students with the skills needed for entrepreneurship—such as problem-solving, innovation, and resilience. Through the GCTP, I have advocated for the integration of entrepreneurial education into schools and universities, promoting skill-building programs that prepare the younger generation to thrive in a rapidly changing economy.

Cultural factors also play a role in hindering entrepreneurship, particularly the fear of failure. In many Arab societies, failure in business is stigmatized, which discourages risk-taking—an essential component of entrepreneurship. To counter this mindset, I have leveraged the GCTP's network to share success stories of entrepreneurs who overcame failure and ultimately achieved success, emphasizing that failure is often a stepping stone to innovation.

Finally, fostering cross-cultural collaboration within the Arab region and with other parts of the world has been challenging. Different legal systems, economic environments, and political dynamics make it difficult for entrepreneurs to collaborate seamlessly across borders. However, I have worked tirelessly to create networks of cooperation, such as through the IPTP, which facilitates dialogue and collaboration between entrepreneurs from different regions and cultures.

In summary, the key challenges I have faced include overcoming regulatory barriers, improving access to capital, addressing educational gaps, shifting cultural attitudes towards failure, and fostering cross-border collaborations. By addressing these issues, I aim to create an entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Arab region that is more resilient, inclusive, and conducive to innovation.

How do you maintain a meticulous level of detail and strategic vision across the multiple roles and responsibilities you handle at the GCTP?

Maintaining a meticulous level of detail and strategic vision across my multiple roles at the GCTP, including overseeing the IPTP and the GATP, requires a structured and disciplined approach rooted in collaboration, clear goals, and leveraging technology.

First, clarity of purpose is key. Every initiative I lead aligns with the GCTP's overarching mission of fostering global peace and tolerance. This unified vision serves as the foundation upon which all decisions and strategies are built, ensuring that despite the diversity of projects, they all move towards the same goal.

I rely on a highly skilled and dedicated team to handle various aspects of our operations. Delegating tasks to trusted individuals allows me to focus on high-level strategy while ensuring that the finer details of each project are addressed by experts in those areas. Regular updates and strategic meetings ensure that I remain informed and can make adjustments as needed.

For example, the GATP’s educational programs, such as the Master's Program in Tolerance Studies and Global Peace, require meticulous planning and oversight. By working closely with academic institutions and experienced educators, I ensure the program maintains its high standards while contributing meaningfully to global peacebuilding efforts.

Additionally, I emphasize time management and prioritize tasks based on strategic importance. Balancing between the IPTP’s sessions, which bring together parliamentarians to promote tolerance-based policies, and the GATP’s global collaborations with NGOs and academic institutions, I allocate time for both short-term operational tasks and long-term vision planning.

Technology plays a critical role in managing multiple responsibilities. By using advanced project management tools and data-driven insights, I monitor progress across all GCTP activities, from our global sessions to publications and humanitarian initiatives. This ensures that all details are tracked, timelines are met, and our goals are achieved efficiently.

Finally, the GCTP’s global partnerships and collaborations with international organizations, governments, and civil society help in streamlining efforts across multiple fronts. Whether it’s organizing conferences or supporting humanitarian initiatives, these partnerships allow for resource sharing and coordinated efforts, which enhances our impact.

Put simply, I maintain a meticulous level of detail and strategic vision by ensuring clarity of purpose, building strong teams, leveraging technology, prioritizing tasks, and fostering partnerships that advance GCTP’s mission of promoting tolerance, peace, and justice.

What advice would you give to budding entrepreneurs looking to turn their passion into a successful business?

To budding entrepreneurs looking to turn their passion into a successful business, my advice is rooted in three key principles: purpose, perseverance, and adaptability.

Define Your Purpose: Passion alone is not enough; you need a clear purpose that drives your business. Ask yourself, what problem are you solving? How will your business make a positive impact on society? Defining your mission will give you clarity, and that purpose will become your guiding light during challenging times. Align your business goals with values that matter, such as sustainability, innovation, or social responsibility, as these are critical for long-term success.

Perseverance is Key: Every entrepreneur faces setbacks, but it’s your ability to persevere through challenges that will determine your success. Building a business requires patience, determination, and the resilience to keep going, even when things don’t go as planned. Failures are often stepping stones to greater opportunities—learn from them and keep moving forward. Your journey will be full of ups and downs, but those who stay focused and persistent are the ones who achieve lasting success.

Be Adaptable: The business landscape is constantly changing, and successful entrepreneurs must be willing to adapt. Stay informed about industry trends, be open to new ideas, and embrace innovation. Flexibility is a key ingredient in navigating an evolving market, and your ability to pivot when necessary can be the difference between growth and stagnation. Surround yourself with a strong team, and don’t be afraid to seek advice and mentorship to guide you through uncharted territory.

Additionally, networking and building relationships are crucial. Collaborate with others in your field, learn from their experiences, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance from more seasoned entrepreneurs. The connections you make can open doors to new opportunities and partnerships that can elevate your business. 

Lastly, remember that sustainability matters. In today’s world, businesses that prioritize social and environmental impact are more likely to succeed in the long run. Integrate sustainable practices into your business model from the start, and not only will you build a profitable company, but you’ll also contribute to a better world.

In summary, follow your passion with a strong sense of purpose, persevere through challenges, stay adaptable, and focus on sustainability. These principles will help you turn your passion into a thriving and impactful business.

Do you have any final thoughts or comments before we conclude?

As we conclude, I would like to emphasize the importance of unity, collaboration, and purpose in everything we do, whether in entrepreneurship, leadership, or efforts to promote global peace. We live in an increasingly interconnected world where challenges like intolerance, violence, and inequality affect all of us. It is only through collective efforts and a shared vision that we can address these global issues effectively.

The Global Council for Tolerance and Peace was founded on the principle that tolerance is the key to a more harmonious and peaceful world. Our mission is to bring people, nations, and cultures together to foster understanding and collaboration. In this spirit, I encourage everyone—entrepreneurs, leaders, educators, and individuals—to be part of this mission. Whether it’s through business ventures, educational initiatives, or advocacy, each of us has the power to make a meaningful impact on the world around us.

I also want to express my deep gratitude to everyone who has supported the GCTP and its initiatives. Your commitment and dedication to promoting peace and tolerance inspire me every day. As we move forward, let’s continue to work together toward a future where peace, justice, and inclusivity are not just goals but realities for all people, regardless of their background.

Finally, I want to leave you with a message of hope. No matter the challenges we face, I believe in the power of individuals and communities to create positive change. By fostering a culture of peace, tolerance, and innovation, we can build a brighter future for generations to come.

Thank you for this opportunity to share my thoughts, and I look forward to continuing this important journey of promoting global peace and understanding.

Recognition and Impact on Global Diplomacy

H.E. Ahmed Bin Mohamed Al Jarwan has been instrumental in shaping global dialogues with international organizations such as the United Nations, UNESCO, and the Arab League, and has received recognition from dignitaries worldwide for his tireless work in peace, security, and human rights. He has received the following awards: 

• SDG Expert, World Association for Sustainable Development, UK, 2024

• Leader of Tolerance and Global Peace, UCAM University, Spain, 2024

• Sheikh Issa Bin Ali Award for Voluntary Work, Bahrain, 2024

• The Bizz Excellency Award, USA, 2023

• Golden Medal from the Gran Gruz Category, Government of Colombia, 2021

• Order of Democracy, by the President of Colombia, among many others.

• Lifetime Achievement Award, Marquis Who’s Who

• Executives Award, Diamond Level, Harvard Business Council, 2022, USA

• Featured by Millennium Magazine 2021, USA

• Featured by the Wall Street Journal, 2021, USA

• World Humanitarian Award, 2021, USA

The GCTP's partnerships with international organizations and national parliaments allow us to facilitate direct business collaborations. These partnerships create pathways for entrepreneurs to access new markets, share best practices, and build joint ventures.