TRENDS Research & Advisory has entered a significant partnership agreement with the Salam Centre for Extremism Studies and CombATING Islamophobia, officially signed on January 31, 2025, during a ceremony attended by key figures including Dr. Nazir Ayad, the Grand Mufti of the Arab Republic of Egypt.
This agreement aims to strengthen research collaboration between the two entities to tackle extremist ideologies through specialized studies. The signing ceremony was held in Abu Dhabi, UAE, where Dr. Mohamed Abdullah Al-Ali, the CEO of TRENDS, and Dr. Ibrahim Negm, Senior Advisor to Egypt’s Grand Mufti and President of the Salam Centre, joined forces to formalize this important alliance.
Both organizations are committed to combating extremism and promoting tolerance and coexistence among diverse communities. The partnership seeks to reinforce joint research efforts to confront extremist discourse and rectify misconceptions perpetuated by certain groups. By organizing international events and conferences, the aim is to correct false narratives surrounding extremism.
Dr. Al-Ali underscored the importance of their cooperation, stating, "This constructive cooperation addresses challenges related to intellectual extremism and terrorism." He emphasized how collaboration between research institutions can serve as a defensive barrier against intellectual threats, which jeopardize the stability and peace of nations.
Continuing, Dr. Al-Ali remarked on TRENDS' commitment to providing analytical studies which would reinforce intellectual security, combat ideologies distorting religion for political gain, and sustain the discourse surrounding tolerance.
Regarding the significance of joint ventures, Dr. Negm noted, "At Salam Centre, we firmly believe partnerships between research institutions play a pivotal role in enhancing societal awareness and preparing communities to confront these challenges." He reflected on how this agreement marks the culmination of intense prior efforts made by both parties to confront extremist ideologies.
This strategic union aims to advance a proactive dialogue against extremism by facilitating seminars and workshops, allowing for the productive exchange of expertise and knowledge. Through these initiatives, the partners seek not only to engage scholars but also to make significant impacts on local communities.
Dr. Negm reiterated their determination, stating, "Together, we will provide practical and effective solutions to combat extremist ideologies through thorough analytical research and studies." This sentiment encapsulates the essence of the partnership's objectives, which are deeply rooted in promoting peace and tolerance.
With this alliance, TRENDS Research & Advisory and the Salam Centre are poised to play a transformative role not only across the region but also globally, as they strive to combat the rising tide of extremist ideologies with informed and sustained action.