International Conference “Inter-Religious Tolerance and the Role of Media” held in Baku on 15 December 2016. The event was organized with the support of the European Union Delegation to Azerbaijan, Center of Excellence in EU Studies at ADA University, State Committee on Religious Associations of the Republic of Azerbaijan, International Eurasia Press Fund and International Organization for Migration.The participants had an exchange of views and practices on the role of media and multiculturalism with a particular focus on inter-religious tolerance.
Tommaso Virgili, Researcher, European Foundation for Democracy and Counter extremism Project Europe gave an exclusive comment on extremism in Europe.
Eurasia Diary: European integration is based on liberal democratic principles and fundamental liberal values.Throughout many decades Christians, Muslims and Jews have been peacefully living together in Europe. However, we still observe some gaps between religious groups there. What kind of policy do European governments use for total eradication of extremism?
Tommoaso Virgili: : European Union attempts to prevent and counter extremism in all European countries. European policy makers, scholars and activists are trying to formthe network in order to prevent radicalization. I think that extremism cannot be counted by oppressive means such as repression. So, we need to strengthen resilience of vulnerable communities for struggling with radicalization. We need to empower liberal voices. We need to educate people about importance of tolerance. We also need to work with social workers and teachers to hinder radicalization in these communities. In my opinion, core values in liberal democracyare not founded by Christians, Muslims or any other specific communities.
By Yunis Abdullayev
