TRENDS Research & Advisory held a dialogue session with a high-level delegation from Russia’s Valdai Discussion Club, focusing on the pivotal role of think tanks and research and academic institutions in countering extremism, terrorist groups, and movements that promote violence, chief among them the Muslim Brotherhood, which poses an increasing threat to regional and international security and stability.

Participants in the session emphasized the importance of confronting extremist ideologies through knowledge and education, and of strengthening the role of intellectual and cultural institutions that play a vital part in spreading awareness, promoting understanding, and correcting misconceptions. These institutions also contribute significantly to the advancement of human thought and the enhancement of societal awareness.

The session came as part of the ongoing efforts of TRENDS’ physical office in Russia to foster dialogue and engagement with Russian research and knowledge institutions, and to build sustainable research partnerships. The session featured the participation of Andrey Bystritskiy, Chairman of the Valdai Discussion Club; Oleg Tsatsourine, Board Member; Dr. Maxim Miller; along with several TRENDS sector heads, department directors, experts, and researchers.

Promoting Cooperation and Dialogue

At the start of the session, Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research & Advisory, welcomed the delegation of the Valdai Discussion Club, which is one of the world’s most prominent platforms for strategic dialogue. He explained that the meeting reflects TRENDS’ ongoing commitment to strengthening research cooperation, deepening mutual understanding, and engaging in meaningful dialogue with international think tanks. The goal, he said, is to build bridges of knowledge and exchange perspectives on contemporary issues to develop innovative solutions to global challenges.

Dr. Al-Ali stressed that think tanks, academic institutions, and global dialogue platforms bear a significant responsibility in fostering a culture of dialogue and expanding discussions around global issues. He also highlighted their essential role in correcting misconceptions, countering destructive ideologies, and confronting extremist movements and groups, particularly the Muslim Brotherhood, which seeks to spread chaos, destabilize societies, and promote radical thought.

Promoting Moderate Thought

Dr. Al-Ali stated that TRENDS counters such groups and extremist ideologies through the production of in-depth analytical research and studies that expose the agendas of extremist organizations and challenge the ideas of terrorist groups. At the same time, it plays a key role in correcting false narratives and promoting moderate thinking.

He noted that TRENDS is committed to enhancing cooperation and partnerships with Russian research, academic, and intellectual institutions, including most notably the Valdai Discussion Club, to develop joint research projects and comprehensive, innovative strategies grounded in specialized scientific research and practical applications aimed at countering extremism and correcting misconceptions.

Transnational Extremism

Andrey Bystritskiy, Chairman of the Valdai Discussion Club, stated during the session that constructive dialogue between think tanks and research institutions is the foundation for mutual understanding and effective international cooperation. He added that TRENDS Research & Advisory is one of the world’s leading research institutions committed to open and inclusive dialogue, playing a vital role in offering deep insights into regional and global issues and contributing to the fight against transnational extremism and terrorism.

Bystritskiy noted that TRENDS stands out as a distinguished and noteworthy think tank thanks to its diverse research programs and precise global studies. He also highlighted its specialized research projects that expose the threat posed by the Muslim Brotherhood to international systems and propose effective strategies for addressing and countering the group’s ideology. He praised TRENDS for its ongoing efforts to combat extremist thought and promote a culture of peace and tolerance.