ICCEHS Executive Board Director Meets President of the Arab World Institute (IMA) in Paris to Advance Dialogue and Counter Extremism Through Culture and Language
“The Arabic language is not only a means of expression, but a powerful force for coexistence, dialogue, and lasting peace”
Paris , 2nd of April 2026
Dr. Nidal Shoukeir, Executive Board Director of the International Committee on Countering Extremist and Hate Speech (ICCEHS), held a high-level meeting with H.E. Anne-Claire Legendre, President of the Arab World Institute (IMA), at the Institute’s headquarters in Paris.
During the meeting, H.E. Anne-Claire Legendre and Dr. Nidal Shoukeir discussed key issues of mutual interest, with a particular focus on the vital role of the Arabic language in addressing the growing challenges of extremist rhetoric and hate speech. They also emphasized the importance of promoting responsible and inclusive approaches to education that foster dialogue, mutual understanding, and sustainable peace. The discussions further addressed current developments in the Middle East, with particular attention to the evolving dynamics in the Gulf region.
Dr. Shoukeir presented the mission, vision, and strategic objectives of the International Committee on Countering Extremist and Hate Speech, highlighting its role as an international platform dedicated to confronting extremist narratives, combating hate speech, and promoting dialogue, tolerance, and responsible communication on a global scale. He also outlined the Committee’s recent initiative, “Voices for Peace: Together Toward Stability in the Region,” aimed at mobilizing cultural voices to promote lasting stability and peace, while addressing the growing challenges of extremist discourse, digital radicalization, and misinformation.
Dr. Shoukeir stated: “In an era where words can ignite division and deepen conflicts, they also hold the extraordinary power to heal, to connect, and to inspire hope. Language is never neutral—it can be used to spread hatred, but it can also become a bridge between cultures and a force for peace. The Arabic language, with its profound richness, history, and human depth, carries within it the values of dialogue, dignity, and coexistence. When we reconnect with these values, language becomes not a weapon, but a path—one that leads toward understanding, tolerance, and lasting peace.”
He added: “In the difficult times we are living through today, silence is no longer an option. Voices for peace must rise—stronger, clearer, and more united than ever before. Cultural voices, in particular, have a unique responsibility: to restore meaning, to counter division, and to remind the world that our shared humanity is far greater than what divides us. Together, through dialogue and responsible communication, we can help shape a future where peace is not just an aspiration, but a lived reality.”
For her part, H.E. Anne-Claire Legendre welcomed the work of the Committee and commended its efforts to promote dialogue, moderation, and intercultural understanding. She highlighted the essential role of cultural and linguistic initiatives in countering extremist narratives and fostering mutual respect between societies. She also reaffirmed the commitment of the Arab World Institute to supporting initiatives that strengthen cultural bridges between Europe and the Arab world, and that contribute to building a shared space grounded in dialogue, knowledge, and peaceful coexistence.
H.E. Legendre noted: “In a time marked by rising tensions and fragmentation, cultural institutions have a critical role to play in preserving dialogue and fostering mutual understanding. The Arab World Institute remains committed to promoting the richness of Arab culture and language as essential pillars for building bridges between societies and advancing a shared vision of peace and coexistence.”
Regarding the situation in the Gulf, both sides expressed their support for partners in the region, particularly the United Arab Emirates, during these sensitive and uncertain times. They reaffirmed their commitment to initiatives that promote regional stability, cooperation, and peaceful dialogue, while emphasizing the importance of supporting models that embody humanistic and cultural values.
The meeting also explored potential areas of collaboration in research, policy dialogue, and international initiatives aimed at countering hate speech and preventing the spread of extremist ideologies through language and education.
The International Committee on Countering Extremist and Hate Speech (ICCEHS) continues to work with global partners to advance strategies that promote responsible communication, protect social cohesion, and support international efforts to promote a culture of tolerance, dialogue, and lasting peace in an increasingly fragmented world.
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