The role of religions in peace-building and conflict resolution in the Mediterranean region

The EPP Group will discuss in Nicosia, Cyprus, on 17 and 18 October 2013 the role of religions in the process of peace building and conflict resolution in the Mediterranean Region.

“At a time when violence and social hostility against individuals and against groups from various religious or belief backgrounds are increasing in the broader area of the Mediterranean region, the dialogue among Christians, Muslims and Jews also becomes increasingly timely”, Jan Olbrycht MEP, Vice-Chairman of the EPP Group responsible for Intercultural Activities and Interreligious Dialogue, said before the meeting.

“Political and religious leaders have a duty at all levels to combat extremism and promote mutual respect among individuals and religious groups”, added Mr Olbrycht.

Fundamentalism as a factor of political destabilisation, the protection of religious heritages as a sign of civilisation and the coexistence of religions will be the main themes discussed by prominent speakers from the sensitive Eastern Mediterranean region, representing different religions, Members of the EPP Group and Members of the Cypriot Government.

“The location of Cyprus, in a politically-sensitive and volatile geographic area and at a crossroads of faiths and civilisations, offers the perfect platform for such a debate but also stresses the country’s natural role in supporting international efforts to promote security and stability in the region”, said Eleni Theocharous MEP, Head of the Cypriot Delegation of the EPP Group before the opening of the meeting.

 The deliberations of the Intercultural Dialogue will be web-streamed and can be followed on our Group’s website.