By Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali*
As part of its ongoing efforts to promote intellectual collaboration and dialogue on coexistence, tolerance, and combatting violence and extremism, TRENDS Research & Advisory embarked on a new research tour, travelling from Abu Dhabi to Paris and London. This initiative marked a continuation of its 2024 global research tour aimed at fostering partnerships with think tanks and international institutions worldwide.
Guided by the principle that meaningful dialogue and fact-based understanding are the most effective tools to address global challenges, TRENDS remains committed to presenting insights that offer solutions to international issues. As a global platform for intellectual exchange and a knowledge bridge between the Middle East and the world, TRENDS plays a vital role in fostering understanding and cooperation.
The European leg of the tour began in Paris, where TRENDS hosted a panel discussion at the Monory Hall of Luxembourg Palace in collaboration with the French Senate. Titled "Coexistence and Muslim Brotherhood's Separatism: Crossed Perspectives", the panel discussion featured Senator Nathalie Goulet, Joaquim Pueyo, Mayor of Alençon and former member of the French Parliament, along with a distinguished group of researchers and experts.
The discussion centred on promoting tolerance and coexistence while addressing the threats posed by separatism and extremism. Participants emphasised the importance of cooperation between think tanks, policymakers, media, and educational institutions worldwide to take practical measures and carry out international awareness campaigns to counter the societal impact of terrorism. A notable outcome of the dialogue was Senator Goulet's decision to grant TRENDS the rights to translate her book on terrorism financing from French to English, in recognition of the centre's dedication to raising awareness about extremism, violence, and terrorism.
During its time in Paris, TRENDS also held a dialogue session with the Arab World Institute to explore opportunities for collaborative projects, future initiatives, and cultural exchange between Arab countries, France, and Europe. The discussions emphasised capacity-building for young researchers, fostering cultural diplomacy, and developing high-quality, evidence-based studies on Middle Eastern and global issues.
From Paris, TRENDS travelled to London, where it hosted a symposium at the British Parliament titled "Enhancing Prospects for Gulf-British Cooperation: Opportunities and Future Outlooks". Organised in partnership with the Global Arab Network, the event brought together prominent figures, including Rt. Hon. Bambos Charalambous, British MP; Sir Liam Fox, Former Secretary of State for Defence; Lord Ian Austin, Baron Austin of Dudley; and leading thinkers and researchers. Discussions focused on expanding cooperation between GCC countries and the UK, particularly in the fields of energy, trade, investment, and technology.
The symposium also highlighted the UAE's pioneering role in promoting regional stability and growth. Participants underscored the importance of adopting the UAE's successful model in governance, economic policy, and cultural diplomacy. They also called for increased efforts to combat extremist groups like the Muslim Brotherhood, including advocating for their designation on global terrorism lists.
In a media partnership with Aletihad News Center, TRENDS used its European tour to emphasise the critical role of knowledge-based media. The centre highlighted the importance of countering extremist narratives by promoting intellectual initiatives that present forward-thinking perspectives, combat radical ideologies, and champion the values of global peace and understanding.
TRENDS concluded its events and activities in London on a high note, receiving the Best Research Center Award 2024 from the Global Arab Network during a ceremony at the British Parliament. This honour recognised the centre's significant contributions to global knowledge dissemination, intellectual dialogue, and the consistent quality of its diverse research outputs.
Cultural dialogue is a powerful tool for addressing the challenges posed by closed-minded ideologies in today's societies. Peaceful coexistence forms the foundation for achieving growth, stability, and prosperity. For the Middle East, the need for peace is particularly urgent, as it provides an essential pathway to move beyond crises and conflicts toward a secure, dialogue-driven future. Dialogue among think tanks and international institutions offers practical avenues for resolving conflicts, promoting tolerance, and dismantling extremist rhetoric. Through critical analysis and research-based deconstruction of radical ideologies, it is possible to develop models rooted in citizenship, cooperation, and shared values. This collective effort is vital for combatting extremism and preventing future crises.
*The writer is the CEO of TRENDS Research & Advisory