Brussels: The King Hamad Global Center for Coexistence and Tolerance, in cooperation with the European Union, organised the third Bahrain-EU Conference on Freedom of Religion and Belief in Brussels under the theme "The Practice of Promoting Coexistence", with participation from international parliamentary, diplomatic, academic, and religious figures.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Kingdom of Bahrain's delegation was led by Ali Abdulla Al Aradi, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Trustees, and included notable figures such as Lina Habib Kassim from the Shura Council, MP Mohammed Yousif Al Maarafi from the Council of Representatives, Dr. Fuad Al Ansari, President of the University of Bahrain, Daniel Haroun Cohen from the National Institution for Human Rights, Noora Al Mansoori from the King Hamad Global Center, Dr. Badi Jabri of the Bah¡' Social Society, and Mahendra Bhatia from the Hindu Temple in Bahrain.
The conference was held under the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the directives of the government led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. This initiative aims to consolidate a culture of peace, tolerance, and dialogue among religions and cultures, showcasing the Bahrain-EU partnership in supporting pluralism and human coexistence.
Ali Abdulla Al Aradi, in his opening remarks, emphasized the significance of the partnership with the European Union in organizing this conference, highlighting the transition from a regional to a global dialogue aimed at reinforcing peace and sustainable coexistence. He noted that this cooperation, which began in Manama in 2022, addresses issues like combating hate speech, promoting tolerance through education, and the responsible use of technology for human dignity.
Bahrain's model of tolerance and coexistence was highlighted, characterized by harmonious relations among followers of different faiths, supported by wise leadership and strong institutions. The King Hamad Global Center remains committed to promoting interfaith dialogue and cooperation to protect freedom of religion and belief.
Kajsa Ollongren, the European Union Special Representative for Human Rights, acknowledged the partnership with the King Hamad Global Center, emphasizing the EU's dedication to dialogue, understanding, and respect for religious freedoms, and recognizing Bahrain's leadership in promoting tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
The conference included panel discussions on themes such as "Protecting Freedom of Religion or Belief", "Education, Awareness, and Cultural Diplomacy", and "Combating Hate Speech and Hate Crimes". The closing session reviewed comparative experiences and best practices in fostering tolerance and mutual understanding, affirming the importance of international cooperation for peace and respect.
On the sidelines, the King Hamad Global Center engaged in bilateral consultations with EU institutions and international partners, discussing cooperation in moral education, cultural diplomacy, and joint research on hate speech and digital coexistence. These efforts aim to enhance the Center's presence in Europe and contribute to a global roadmap for promoting religious freedom and mutual respect.