–Received the Tolerance Award, Contributed to Conference Dialogues and Showcased a Knowledge Pavilion

TRENDS Research & Advisory successfully concluded its participation as a knowledge partner in the 2nd International Dialogue of Civilizations and Tolerance Conference. Organized by the Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies (ESRC) in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence, the conference took place at the Abu Dhabi Energy Center.

The event brought together a distinguished group of intellectuals and experts to discuss ways to enhance intercultural dialogue and promote the values of tolerance and coexistence. In his keynote speech, Dr. Mohammed Al-Ali emphasized the role of scientific research in fostering mutual understanding among nations, highlighting the crucial contribution of think tanks in spreading awareness and embedding a culture of tolerance within societies.

On the first day of the conference, TRENDS was honored with the 2025 Tolerance Award in recognition of its research efforts and pioneering initiatives in promoting coexistence and cultural openness on a global scale.

Youth Leadership and Social Responsibility

TRENDS played an active role in moderating conference sessions. Researcher Shamma Ahmed Al-Qutbah moderated the first discussion panel, titled “Building Inclusive Societies: Youth Leadership and Social Responsibility”. The session featured a distinguished lineup of experts in cultural values, sustainable development, and intercultural dialogue.

Al-Qutbah highlighted the significant role of youth in achieving social inclusivity and fostering a sense of responsibility. Panelists included: Dr. Mohamed Dahiri, Professor of Arabic and Islamic Studies at Madrid University, specializing in cultural and religious coexistence; Dr. Zekirija Segdini, Professor of Islam in Contemporary Society at the University of Vienna; Dr. Yigal Ben-Shalom, President of the Association for Preserving the Social and Cultural Heritage of Yemeni Jews, who discussed the importance of preserving cultural heritage to build more inclusive communities; and Dr. Rashed Karkin, an environmental and sustainable development expert, who underscored the role of sustainability as a fundamental pillar for inclusivity and growth.

The discussion covered key themes, including the role of cultural and religious values in guiding young leaders, interfaith and intercultural dialogue as a bridge for understanding, and balancing cultural identity with modernity and diversity. The panel also explored the link between sustainability and social responsibility, presenting successful youth-led initiatives that integrate environmental development with social inclusion.

The Role of Youth in Building a Sustainable Society

On the second day, TRENDS researcher Rashed Al-Hosani moderated a session titled “Youth and the Future: The Role of Identity and Inclusion in Building a Sustainable Society”.

The panel featured prominent figures, including: H.E Dr. Ashraf El-Shihy former Egyptian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research; H.E Dherar Belhoul Al Falasi, former member of the UAE Federal National Council; H.E Nasser Al Yamahi, Executive Director of the Fujairah Culture and Media Authority; H.E Abdullah Al Kamali, Executive Director of the People of Determination Sector at Zayed Higher Organization; and Dr. Fatma Al-Dahmani, Head of the Tolerance and Coexistence Department at Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities.

Discussions centered on the importance of national identity in modern societies and its role in achieving sustainable development. Panelists also explored strategies for youth empowerment and engagement in building a more inclusive future, mechanisms for integrating diverse social groups—especially People of Determination—into development pathways, and the role of culture and tolerance in fostering peaceful coexistence.

Knowledge Pavilion

Throughout the three-day conference, TRENDS hosted a knowledge exhibition featuring its latest publications. The event also showcased TRENDS’ AI-powered research assistant, Echo, which interacted with attendees and answered questions about the center’s research initiatives.