The Wilton Park Mediterranean initiative for a multi-stakeholder Dialogue on Inclusive Citizenship and Freedom of Religion and Belief was held in Frascati, Italy, between the 6th and 8th of March. Co-organized by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Italian and British Embassies to the Holy See, and the Adyan Foundation, the conference brought together religious actors, experts, and policymakers to explore the link between FoRB and Inclusive Citizenship in the Middle East.
The event’s focus on FoRB highlighted its critical role in promoting social cohesion and reducing inequality, resentment, and unrest in the region. The conference recognized that the lack of FoRB is not only a pressing global issue affecting millions but also a source of socioeconomic discrimination and segregation that increases inequality, resentment, and unrest.
Attalaki participated as the leading voice in promoting FoRB in Tunisia. The organization’s focus on FoRB is based on its commitment to the principles of human rights and democracy. Attalaki’s efforts have been critical in building a cohesive and inclusive society in Tunisia and have been actively advocating for legal and societal reforms to protect the rights of religious minorities.
The conference recognized the need to bring the agendas of FoRB and Inclusive Citizenship together to ensure shared progress. Participants identified the areas of concern and the remaining challenges and obstacles on the legal and societal levels for the concrete implementation of this agenda and recommended ways to overcome them. The conference fostered and promoted social cohesion through a shared interreligious agenda for FoRB and Inclusive Citizenship, especially in the MENA and Mediterranean areas. It also proposed creative new forms of multireligious engagement for human dignity, fraternity, and living together.
Mr. Ghassen Ayari, the head of Attalaki’s public relations and partnership office, had the privilege of attending an audience granted by His Holiness Pope Francis, as well as participating in numerous discussions with decision-makers. During these interactions, he emphasized the importance of Attalaki’s work on FoRB and promoting interfaith understanding.
In conclusion, the Wilton Park Mediterranean initiative for a multi-stakeholder Dialogue on Inclusive Citizenship and Freedom of Religion and Belief was a significant event that highlighted the critical role of FoRB in promoting social cohesion and reducing inequality, resentment, and unrest in the Middle East. The conference provided valuable insights into promoting FoRB and building inclusive societies in the Middle East, and its policy recommendations will help advance this critical agenda. The involvement of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Italian and British Embassies to the Holy See, and the Adyan Foundation, as well as the participation of Attalaki, underscores the importance of this issue at a global level.