In conjunction with the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Violence Based on Religion or Belief, Maat for Peace, Development, and Human Rights, in collaboration with the Egyptian Coalition for the Universal Periodic Review, held a panel discussion titled: "Religious Tolerance: Towards a More Understanding and Peaceful Society."

The discussion addressed the challenges facing religious tolerance in Egypt and ways to enhance tolerance within the community. It concluded with several important recommendations aimed at promoting values of tolerance and peaceful coexistence. The discussion was attended by a group of experts, human rights advocates, media professionals, and Islamic and Christian clergy.

In this context, Journalist Mrs. Amina Khairy, emphasized that addressing religious violence and hate speech requires the combined efforts of various institutions, including media, education, the church, and Al-Azhar. She also recommended renewing religious discourse and enhancing the role of media in promoting tolerance, as well as encouraging responsible use of social media.

Father Karas Lamei, priest at the Church of Saint Demiana in Adawiya and Public Relations Officer for churches in Central Cairo, stated that promoting religious tolerance requires showcasing high-level examples from diverse religious traditions. He called for involving youth in community activities to combat religious hatred and protect them from technological risks.

Dr. Hamada Ismail Shaaban, a professor at Al-Azhar University and a supervisor at the Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism, highlighted the importance of translating religious sermons into societal behaviors reflected in educational curricula and awareness initiatives. He also recommended revising the teaching of religious studies to enhance tolerance and counter extremism, to add important material and not to lessen it.

Sister Pauline Massouh, Head of the Catholic Nuns and Schools in Alexandria and Principal of Saint Jeanne Antide School in Alexandria, stressed the need to foster peaceful coexistence through education. She emphasized that the goal of education is to instill respect for others and strengthen community cohesion. She also recommended regular meetings between schools and parents and implementing educational projects that promote peaceful coexistence.

Ms. Malak Hassan, a researcher at the International Mechanisms Unit at Maat and event moderator, highlighted the role of civil society in enhancing religious tolerance. She emphasized the importance of continued interfaith dialogues and workshops that bring together individuals from diverse religious backgrounds to foster mutual understanding.

The discussion resulted in several recommendations, the most significant being the establishment of continuous dialogue channels among various community actors to enhance religious tolerance and promote peaceful coexistence in Egypt.

This discussion is part of Maat and the Egyptian Coalition for the Universal Periodic Review's efforts to hold serious discussions among all stakeholders in preparation for Egypt’s review in 2025.