ID :
707498
Wed, 10/29/2025 - 02:05
Auther :
BNA
Shortlink :
https://www.oananews.org//node/707498
The shortlink copeid

MP Al Maarafi participates in Bahrain–EU Conference on Freedom of Religion and Belief

Brussels, Oct. 28 (BNA): MP Mohamed Yousif Al Maarafi participated in the third Bahrain–EU Conference on Freedom of Religion and Belief in the Belgian capital, Brussels, from October 28-29. The event was organised by the King Hamad Global Center for Coexistence and Tolerance in cooperation with the European Union. 


 

MP Al Maarafi said the Council of Representatives remains committed to engaging government and civil institutions in advancing tolerance, moderation, coexistence, and peace. He noted that these efforts are supported through legislative initiatives, national programmes, and policy development aimed at enhancing the Kingdom of Bahrain’s established approach to dialogue and understanding, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.


 

He commended the call made by His Majesty the King during Bahrain’s hosting of the Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly for the adoption of an international convention to criminalise hate speech based on religion, sect, or race. He said this initiative reflects the Kingdom’s aim to promote a global culture of peace, encourage mutual understanding among nations, and embed these values in education, culture, and sports.


 

MP Al Maarafi added that the principles of peace and coexistence are integral to Bahrain’s national identity, the National Action Charter, and the Constitution. He underlined the shared commitment of the legislative and executive branches to advancing initiatives that position dialogue and diplomacy as the basis for resolving regional and international challenges.


 

The conference discussed topics including understanding what constitutes a "religion-friendly society" – its frameworks and practices – with perspectives from the Kingdom and the EU, education and awareness, cultural diplomacy, freedom of religion and artificial intelligence, coexistence and tolerance within and beyond the EU and the Gulf region, countering hate speech and hate crimes, and tools for protecting freedom of religion and belief in diverse societies.

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