His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V Accepts Allegiance as Imam of Shia Ismaili Muslims: A Visionary Commitment to Climate, Social Justice, and Global

Diwan - Lisbon February 11, 2025: We stand witness to a momentous occasion as His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, the 50th Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, graciously accepts the pledge of allegiance made on behalf of millions of Ismaili Muslims worldwide. This act of acceptance, a profound symbol of unity and respect, is a testament to the deep bond that exists within our community. As the spiritual leader of the global Shia Ismaili Muslims Jamat, His Highness embodies a rich legacy of compassion, ethical leadership, and a deep commitment to social and environmental causes. In addition to his spiritual role, he serves as the Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), an influential organization recognized for promoting sustainable development, addressing global challenges, and fostering peace.

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As the new Imam, His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V continues the legacy of his esteemed predecessor, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV (1936 -2025). This continuity of leadership, rooted in ethical leadership and community welfare values, serves as a reassuring thread that connects us to our past and guides us toward our future. Through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), His Highness advocates climate action, environmental sustainability, and social justice. His approach to leadership, grounded in compassion, responsibility, and sustainability, aims to create a more inclusive and harmonious world. His work reinforces a commitment to global development, which seeks to uplift communities, protect the environment, and ensure long-term peace and prosperity.

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As highlighted in a private gathering and previously as part of the AKDN, one of His Highness's core priorities is preserving our environment. In the face of the escalating threat of climate change, His Highness has consistently emphasized the importance of sustainable development practices to protect the planet for future generations. His commitment to environmental stewardship is not just rhetorical; it is evident in his practical efforts to integrate environmental concerns into development strategies, encompassing urban planning and rural sustainability. His hands-on approach to these issues, promoting renewable energy, reducing carbon footprints, and addressing the impacts of climate change, especially in vulnerable regions such as Central Asia, East Africa, and South Asia, serves as an inspiration and a beacon of hope for the future.

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His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV has been a trailblazer in advancing architectural sustainability, which will be a feat that sets him apart in the field. Under his guidance, the Aga Khan Foundation has spearheaded pioneering projects seamlessly blending modern design with environmental sensitivity. By advocating for sustainable materials, energy-efficient designs, and a profound respect for local ecosystems, the Foundation’s work stands as a unique model for responsible development. His Highness's initiatives have showcased the aesthetic aspect of architecture and its role in creating structures that respect and enhance their environment.

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In addition to his focus on environmental issues, His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V is deeply committed to social justice. He has been a relentless advocate for poverty alleviation, understanding that access to essential services such as healthcare, clean water, and education is crucial for lifting communities out of poverty. His work through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), a network that you can be a part of, emphasizes the social determinants of health and well-being, and he believes that addressing these factors can lead to lasting change for those in need.

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Another cornerstone of His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V's leadership is his vision of inclusive growth. His Highness firmly believes that no one should be left behind in pursuing development. His efforts concentrate on empowering marginalized groups—such as women, youth, and minorities—by providing them with the tools and opportunities necessary for success. Through various social programs and initiatives, AKDN has worked to ensure that these communities are included in and central to economic growth, a cause we can all support.

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His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V's unwavering commitment to long-term solutions in humanitarian work is genuinely inspiring. His focus on rebuilding communities, supporting education, and fostering economic recovery after disasters goes beyond short-term aid. This approach addresses immediate needs and helps build resilience, enabling communities to recover and thrive in the long run.

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Cultural preservation and pluralism, central to His Highness's vision, are crucial in creating harmonious environments that celebrate diversity. His advocacy for a culture that respects diversity and promotes mutual understanding, along with his emphasis on the value of cultural heritage, has led to creating spaces where various faiths, cultures, and communities can coexist harmoniously. This dedication to cultural preservation is a testament to the beauty of diversity and its contribution to social cohesion.

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His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V's influence extends beyond local communities to the global stage. He is a strong proponent of multilateralism and international cooperation, believing that the world's most pressing environmental, social, or economic challenges require collective action and collaboration. His peacebuilding and conflict resolution leadership has fostered understanding and dialogue between nations and communities, emphasizing the importance of partnerships and diplomacy to achieve lasting peace and stability.

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Education, a cornerstone in His Highness’s vision for a better world, is the key to addressing social and environmental challenges. His Highness empowers individuals to make informed decisions that benefit their communities and the planet. The educational initiatives of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) have reached millions worldwide, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond the classroom. This global impact is a testament to our collective efforts and a source of pride for the Ismaili community and supporters of AKDN.

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Under the tireless efforts of His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, the Aga Khan Development Network continues to build upon and extend the visionary leadership of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV. His Highness’s leadership is a beacon of hope, emphasizing the importance of ethical leadership, compassion, and global cooperation in addressing today’s most pressing challenges. This emphasis on ethical leadership reassures us that we are on the right path to a better future.

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Looking ahead, His Highness’s steadfast commitment to his predecessor, to social justice, environmental sustainability, and peacebuilding will inspire future leaders worldwide, including many of you. His enduring vision of global pluralism, interfaith harmony, and inclusive development remains at the core of his initiatives, ensuring a more united and inclusive future for all. The present and future progress stands as a testament to the lasting legacy of leadership, continuing to promote and advance the ideals of a harmonious and interconnected world under the guidance of His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V.