Today's Edition
PARIS (ALETIHAD)
Researchers from TRENDS Research & Advisory, as part of their European tour, made a stop in France, where they convened with the French Institute of International Relations (IFRI) to delve into research collaboration and extremism-related issues. The discussion held on the sidelines of the Paris International Book Fair 2024, also addressed significant African topics.
TRENDS and IFRI Confront Extremism
In the inaugural panel discussion, researchers and experts from TRENDS and IFRI convened to address the peril posed by extremist groups, alongside the potential for collaborative research on these pressing issues. Led by Dr. Mohammad Abdullah Al Ali, CEO of TRENDS, researchers presented their global vision and ongoing research initiatives, particularly in combating extremist ideologies and anticipating future events. Notably, they outlined the forthcoming launch of the "Muslim Brotherhood Global Influence Index" at the Paris International Book Fair 2024, providing a comprehensive analysis of the Muslim Brotherhood's power and impact across the world.
Dr. Mark Hecker, Deputy Director of IFRI, along with Ms. Dorothy Schmid, Research Head of the Turkey-Middle East Programme, highlighted the threat posed by jihadist groups, referencing the TRENDS' translated and published work, "The Twenty-Year War: Jihadism and Counterterrorism in the 21st Century". Dr. Hecker underscored the necessity of research collaboration in dismantling jihadist ideologies and combating extremism.
Dr. Hamad Al Kaabi, CEO of Aletihad News Center and Chief Editor of Aletihad newspaper, underscored the crucial need to bolster collaboration between media and scientific research institutions, particularly in combatting the menace posed by jihadist groups.
During the TRENDS delegation's visit to the IFRI headquarters, with two UAE students from Sorbonne University, Dr. Al Kaabi highlighted the pivotal role of media in raising awareness about extremist dangers, nurturing dialogue and tolerance, and supporting global antiterrorism initiatives.
He advocated for harnessing scientific research to craft impactful media strategies in countering extremist ideologies. Additionally, discussions between TRENDS and IFRI delved into African affairs and potential avenues for collaborative ventures, with both parties expressing intent to formalise their partnership through a cooperation agreement.
TRENDS and CEP Discuss Collaboration
TRENDS researchers also engaged with their counterparts at the Center for European Policy in France (CEP) during the second panel discussion, where they explored avenues for enhancing research and knowledge collaboration. Both parties offered insights into their respective work and potential areas for cooperation.
CEP economist Victor Warem presented the CEP’s perspective on various issues, particularly focusing on economic aspects.
The panel underscored the pivotal role of research and think tanks in analysing and predicting events, emphasising the significance of sharing experiences. The two institutions agreed to maintain communication to develop an action plan for cooperation, encompassing research, experience and information exchange, collaborative project implementation, hosting conferences and seminars, and publishing research and studies.
Reflecting on the two panel discussions, Dr. Al Ali noted that the global dialogue initiated by TRENDS, along with its ongoing tour in France, as well as its active engagement in the Paris International Book Fair 2024, are part of the centre’s tireless efforts to bolster cooperation and knowledge exchange.
Dr. Al Ali emphasised TRENDS’ extensive experience across multiple research fields and its aspiration to collaborate with leading international institutions to establish new partnerships, strengthen its global influence, and reaffirm its role as a universal research hub that shapes future narratives through knowledge.
