Senior scholars’ secretary says trusted religious authority counters extremism and strengthens intellectual security

A trusted institutional religious authority can help confront extremism, correct misconceptions and protect social cohesion, said Sheikh Dr Fahd bin Saad al-Majid, secretary-general of Saudi Arabia’s Council of Senior Scholars and the Permanent Committee for Fatwa.

Al-Majid made the remarks during a dialogue at the Security and History Dialogue 2026 conference in Riyadh, organised by the Interior Ministry under the slogan “Our History and Our Future: Security and Growth.” The discussion examined the role of fatwas and religious scholarship in promoting moderation, protecting public awareness and strengthening community security.

He praised the ministry for organising the conference and providing an opportunity to discuss the Council of Senior Scholars’ contribution to intellectual security. He said understanding the role of the council and the Permanent Committee for Fatwa begins with recognising the responsibilities and jurisdictions of each body.

Al-Majid said the council examines general issues and matters of concern to society and Muslims from a religious perspective. The supplied report ends during his explanation of the bodies’ roles.