ABU DHABI, 22nd February, 2024 (WAM) -- The inaugural International Conference of the Dialogue of Civilisations and Tolerance (IDCT Conference) concluded after three days of discussions in Abu Dhabi under the patronage of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence.
The conference was organised by the Emirates Scholar Research and Studies Centre, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence, the United Nations Alliance of Civilisations (UNAOC), with the support of the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau under the Department of Culture and Tourism, with local, Arab, and international attendance.
Conference President Calls for Adopting Stance Against Cyberbullying, Supporting Victims
In his closing speech at the conference, Dr. Fawaz Habbal, President of the Conference and Secretary-General of the Emirates Scholar Research and Studies Centre, expressed his pride in what the conference had achieved during its scientific sessions over three days, particularly in promoting the values of tolerance and addressing the issue of "bullying and tolerance".
A symbolic video produced by UNICEF on this topic was shown. Dr. Habbal explained the importance of tolerance, especially as bullying has become a global issue, necessitating appropriate solutions for the harassment faced by individuals who are bullied, especially in academic sectors, and its impact on students' academic achievement.
The president addressed cyberbullying and its adverse effects on individuals in various societies on social media platforms, stating, "Tolerance on the Internet promotes compassion, understanding, and mutual respect in online interactions.” He made an urgent call to adopt a stance against cyberbullying and support its victims, in addition to blocking "internet bullies" and advocating for stronger policies and legislation against them.
He praised the UAE’s experience in combatting the phenomenon of "bullying" by enacting several deterrent laws and renewed the call of the conference to spread a culture of tolerance.
Nahal Saad, Director of the United Nations Alliance of Civilisations, spoke about the clash of civilisations, the alliance of civilisations, and their differences, invoking the UAE’s experience. The Emirates hosts more than 200 nationalities from different countries, and the state of integration represents the most prominent aspect of tolerance.
The conference sponsor, Paul Chader, Head of Commercial at Emirates Draw, said, "Believing in the dialogue among civilisations and towards a world dominated by tolerance in all its diversities and religions, this conference came once again to affirm that tolerance is a high-quality trait that everyone must embrace and accept others despite all differences."
Launch of International Journal of Civilisational Dialogues and Tolerance
The inaugural edition of the International Journal of Civilisational Dialogues and Tolerance was announced, marking the first peer-reviewed scientific journal for civilisation and tolerance sciences. Awards of appreciation were presented to Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Deputy Chief of Police and Public Security in Dubai, for "Global Impact on the Culture of Tolerance and Coexistence" and to Sheikh Dr. Ammar bin Nasser Al Mualla for "Enhancing Tolerance through Education."
The eighth and final session addressed "The Role of Leaders in Cultivating Tolerance." During this session, Dr. Mustafa Saasa, Chairman of the Board and Managing Director of Raj Group, spoke on "Sustainable Development and Cultural Sensitivity." Several topics were discussed during the session chaired by Professor Andrew Davies, most notably the discussion titled "Building Bridges: Tolerance in the Fabric of Sustainable Development and Relations", with contributions from Dr. Husna Ahmad OBE, Dr. Jyoti Gupta, and Aynat Levy. Husna Ahmad OBE, CEO of Global One, discussed "Exploring Women's Leadership Approach in Climate Justice: Pathways to Influence and Empowerment", in addition to Ani Zonneveld, Founder and President of Muslim for Progressive Values, on "Instilling a Culture of Human Rights Through Music", chaired by Omar Al Hussaini.
The conference concluded, unanimously recognising tolerance as the cornerstone of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect. The organisers announced plans for an upcoming conference, which would build on the momentum generated by the success of the current one.