Abu Dhabi conference spotlights role of youth as agents of peace and tolerance
Source: aletihad.ae
ABU DHABI
Under the patronage of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, the second edition of the International Dialogue of Civilizations & Tolerance Conference is taking place in Abu Dhabi with a focus on the vital role of youth leaders in promoting tolerance.
Organised by the Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies, the conference, themed “Empowering Youth for a Tolerant Future”, runs until February 21 at the Abu Dhabi Energy Centre.
Speaking to Aletihad, Dr. Firas Nadeem Habbal, President – Vice Chancellor, Associate Professor, President of Emirates Scholar Research Center, said the primary goal of the conference is to promote civilisation and tolerance.
“We aim to approach it in a universally relatable and scientifically proven way. This initiative aligns with the vision of UAE leaders, starting with the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed. The conference focuses on three key pillars: Defining tolerance, promoting it among youth, and fostering understanding in communities without direct access to high-ranking diplomats. We are engaging over 80 diplomats, 300+ politicians, and 200 religious leaders,” Dr. Habbal said.
He added: “Abu Dhabi, a capital of dialogue and peace, continues to lead in promoting tolerance and unity, guided by the vision of UAE’s leaders.”
Dr. Habbal highlighted the historic signing of the Document on Human Fraternity on February 4, 2019 in Abu Dhabi by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed El-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, and His Holiness Pope Francis, Head of the Catholic Church.
“Abu Dhabi has exemplified how over 200 nationalities can live in harmony, showing the world the power of dialogue and coexistence,” Dr. Habbal said.
Speaking to Aletihad, Dr. Ashraf El-Shihy, Former Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research of Egypt, highlighted the UAE’s role in promoting tolerance.
“The UAE plays a pioneering role in promoting tolerance, offering a diverse, harmonious environment where all nationalities live together. It is a real example of how tolerance and cooperation can unite people for a better future,” he said.
Participating in the event as a speaker, El-Shihy expressed his pride in being part of this important gathering in Abu Dhabi.
“I spoke about the youth and how we can enhance their sense of belonging through education, protecting them from the negative influence of social media.”
He added: “We discussed the need for open dialogue and critical thinking, as media now has a larger influence on youth than home education or schools. Modern technology must be used wisely, focusing on its positives.”
Also participating in the event as a speaker, Shannon Seban, City Council Member of Rosny-sous-Bois and President of the Renaissance Party in Seine-Saint-Denis, France, said: “It is an honour for me to be invited to the second edition of the International Dialogue of Civilizations & Tolerance Conference,” praising the UAE’s leadership in promoting tolerance.
She discussed the role of women in peace-building. “When you include women in the peace negotiations, the chance to conclude an agreement of peace is higher. Women’s participation increases the probability of a peace agreement lasting at least two years by 20% and 15 years by 34%,” Seban said.
She also expressed her gratitude to the UAE: “Thank you to the UAE, because their geographical position gives them a crucial role in promoting peace. Peace is not like a dream; it is something possible. We just need to make fraternity and dialogue true.”
Fatma Sultan Al Mazrouei, Head of the Historical Archives Section at the National Library and Archives, spoke to Aletihad regarding her participation in the conference: “This conference is very important, especially because it is on the young generation, as they are the future.”
She discussed the role of the National Archive and Library in promoting tolerance, stating: “We have a Tolerance Committee, which includes many young people,” where they promote tolerance through lectures and events using historical documents.
