Coexistence, Freedom of Belief and Countering Extremism in Immigrant Communities

The International Federation of Yemeni Migrants and Human Rights, in collaboration with The Yemeni Coalition for Equal Citizenship and Freedom of Conscience, invites you to an online seminar focused on promoting peaceful coexistence, social awareness, and freedom of conscience within migrant communities.

Event Overview
This seminar comes in response to the growing intellectual and social challenges facing migrant communities, particularly the rise of extremist ideas that exploit feelings of alienation and exclusion. It aims to provide an open and informed platform for dialogue, reflection, and shared responsibility.

Within democratic societies, values such as freedom of thought, freedom of religion, and respect for cultural diversity offer both opportunities and challenges for migrants. While maintaining cultural identity, individuals must also navigate pathways toward meaningful integration. This event addresses these dynamics by fostering critical thinking, strengthening social awareness, and reinforcing the principles of coexistence, mutual respect, and non-violence. This session will be hosted in Arabic and English.

Objectives

1. Raise social awareness among Yemeni migrants and wider Arab communities
2. Counter extremism and terrorism through education and constructive dialogue
3. Promote freedom of religion, freedom of conscience, and peaceful coexistence
4. Empower communities—particularly youth—as active agents of positive change

Target Audience: Yemenis and Arabs living abroad, young people and students, community leaders, educators, and social activists

Seminar Themes
1. Extremism: Concept and Origins
Explores the definition of ideological extremism, its evolution into violent behavior, and the distinction between extremism and freedom of expression, including the role of religious and ideological discourse.
Objective: To build a clear and informed understanding of extremism.

2. Freedom of Religion as a Foundation for Coexistence
Highlights freedom of religion as a fundamental human right and its role in fostering peace, stability, and respect for diversity.
Objective: To strengthen acceptance and respect for differences.

3. Factors Contributing to Extremism
Examines key drivers such as social isolation, marginalisation, discrimination, and the influence of social media, disinformation, and hate speech.
Objective: To identify root causes and explore preventive strategies.

4. Consequences of Extremism and Terrorism
Addresses the broader impacts on security, social cohesion, community perception, and individual well-being.
Objective: To highlight the far-reaching effects of extremism.

5. The Role of Communities in Prevention
Focuses on community-driven solutions, including dialogue, education, youth engagement, civic participation, and building connections with host societies.
Objective: To empower communities as drivers of peace and coexistence.

Programme

• Opening Session (15 minutes)
• Welcome address
• Overview of seminar objectives
• Introduction of speakers
• Main Session
• Presentation of practical solutions
• Open discussion and audience engagement

Expected Outcomes
Enhanced social awareness and resilience, strengthened culture of coexistence and mutual respect, improved relationships with host societies, and empowered youth and community leadership

Register via info@fimy.org or join the Zoom session via the link below: 

Password: 567694