As part of its sustained efforts to promote dialogue and understanding among peoples of different cultural backgrounds, Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism (AOCE) participated in a panel discussion titled "Imagining Peace, Confronting Violence – Religion, Dialogue, and Social Cohesion in the Euro-Med Region”. The session was held on the sideline of the Anna Lindh Foundation Forum (ALFORUM) 2025, which took place in Tirana, Albania, 18-20 June, 2025.
During the session, Mr. Mahmoud Kamel, researcher at English Department and coordinator of "Listen and Talk" initiative at AOCE, highlighted the AOCE's pivotal role in correcting misconceptions about Islam promoted by extremist groups. He emphasized that, contrary to popular perceptions, Muslim-majority countries are the most affected by terrorist attacks.
Mr. Kamel also elaborated on Al-Azhar's vision for promoting a culture of peace and enhancing social cohesion, particularly in the Euro-Mediterranean region, through online and field initiatives aimed at promoting intercultural dialogue and countering hate speech.
Moreover, Mr. Kamel presented Listen and Talk initiative as an effective model for engaging with young people, particularly university students in Egypt, through open dialogue and awareness-raising activities. He noted that the initiative organizes an annual forum that creates a space for direct interaction and engagement between young people and experts in various fields, promoting critical thinking and building bridges of trust between youth and religious institutions.