As part of its efforts to promote dialogue and understanding between cultures and religions, TRENDS Research & Advisory participated in academic activities organized by the Theologies in Dialogue Chair at the Lyon Catholic University (UCLy) in Lyon, France.

The Political Islam Section at TRENDS Research & Advisory presented a research paper titled “From Interfaith Dialogue to Dialogue between Perspectives.”

Redefinition

The paper emphasized the need to rethink the concept of dialogue, proposing a shift from interfaith dialogue to dialogue between perspectives.

It explained that this new model allows for broader participation, where every individual finds a place in the conversation, transcending the limitations of religious dialogue. It also highlighted the importance of adopting new methodological and epistemological tools to enhance the effectiveness of dialogue in addressing contemporary challenges.

Multiple dimensions

TRENDS’ research paper explored the diversity within each religion, demonstrating that this plurality transcends religious boundaries and highlights similarities between various perspectives. It noted that every form of religious practice is governed by a philosophical vision that shapes its understanding, goals, and relationship with politics. This plurality, he stressed, is not confined to any single religion but applies universally.

The paper underscored that dialogue between perspectives provides an inclusive environment that fosters peaceful coexistence and shared prosperity, making it an effective tool for achieving the goals of global dialogue.

Discussions on academic and future collaborations

Graduate students and professors from the Catholic University of Lyon attended the event and expressed great interest in the topics presented.

A TRENDS delegation, headed by Hamad Al-Hosani, researcher and Head of the Political Islam Section, also held a series of meetings with university officials in Lyon to explore collaboration opportunities in translation, event organization, and joint publishing.

At a special meeting, TRENDS researchers discussed avenues for cooperation with Professor Frédéric Abécassis, Director of the Middle Eastern and Islamic World Studies Program at the École Normale Supérieure de Lyon. The discussion focused on enhancing intellectual exchange and developing joint research projects.

Further meetings, headed by researcher Hamad Al-Hosani, were held with the University Platform for Research on Islam (Pluriel) regarding the publication of three books in Arabic, French, and English at the conference organized by Plurieland TRENDS last February on “Islam and Human Fraternity” at TRENDS’ head office in Abu Dhabi.

After these activities, Hamad Al-Hosani, Head of the Political Islam Section at TRENDS, said that this ongoing collaboration between TRENDS and international academic institutions reaffirms the Center’s commitment to fostering dialogue and building cultural and intellectual bridges. This aligns with a vision aimed at producing research that benefits humanity wherever it may be.