H.E. the Secretary-General of the Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology (Etidal), Dr. Mansour Al-Shammari, received an international delegation of religious leaders worldwide (Muslims, Jews, Christians, Hindus, and Buddhists) at the center’s HQ in Riyadh on Thursday, May 12, 2022. During the reception, H.E. expressed that humanity knows nothing but tolerance, coexistence, and acceptance of the other and rejects everything that causes division and disharmony between hearts.
In his speech, H.E. said, “The world is going through evident transformations and changes that increase the escalation of extremist rhetoric, the repercussions of the post-Coronavirus pandemic, and new conflicts that have multiplied the economic and social challenges. Therefore, these unconventional changes require a non-conventional and flexible approach, which focuses on partnerships that deal with these global challenges that do not belong to any religion, race, culture, or place.
He added, “In light of the communication developments, technical revolutions, and the shift that this represents, especially in social media platforms, the responsibilities of dealing with challenges have increased, including the rapid spread of extremist content that targets mainly young people in particular. A matter that requires an urgent need for concerted efforts to avoid encountering a more complex reality in the future. We also emphasize the importance of formulating joint strategies to deal with these challenges using this technological and digital world that attracts young people. We also emphasize the women’s empowerment to practice their leading role in adding an efficient strategy in society”.
H.E. also highlighted the importance of unity, saying, “We are all here from different cultures, religions, and civilizations, united by humanity that knows only tolerance, coexistence, and acceptance of the other, and rejects everything that causes division and disharmony between hearts. Therefore, we share one goal, which is peace and stability for all, a more moderate world for our future generations, and a secured and stable reality.
In conclusion to his speech, H.E. said, “From this standpoint, we affirm our support for joint efforts in combating extremist ideologies and assist the fruitful cooperation in supporting and building international capacities to deal with extremists who use the Internet and social media platforms to spread extremism. We also emphasize the importance of promoting the values of coexistence, understanding, and harmony between religions, civilizations, and nations, with their various components, which guarantee a state of stability, peace, and balance for the whole world”.
