Brussels, June 23, 2024
At an international conference at the European Press Club in Brussels, speakers today voiced their concerns about the rise of religious fundamentalism. The conference, titled “Rise of Fundamentalism: Implications, Challenges, and Threats,” was organized by the European Bangladesh Forum (EBF) in collaboration with Global Solidarity for Peace and the International Human Rights Commission Bangladesh.
Speakers emphasize urgency of action
During the conference, speakers highlighted that fundamentalists try to impose religious norms coercively based on their interpretation of religion. This type of radicalism has led to atrocities and genocides in the past and continues to pose a serious threat today. The speakers called for strong voices against all forms of extremism.
International cooperation and impact
Prominent speakers included Harry van Bommel, former member of the Dutch Parliament, and Niels van den Berge, also a former member of the Dutch Parliament. Other speakers included Professor Dr. Tazeen Murshid from Brussels, Dr. Tommaso Virgili from Germany, Chris Blackburn from the United Kingdom, and Andy Vermaut from Belgium. The speakers pointed out the misuse of charitable organizations in Europe and North America by radical Islamist political movements. This misuse calls for increased scrutiny and accountability for organizations potentially linked to extremist groups.
Education as the key to change
In his speech, Harry van Bommel emphasized the need for the European Union and the United States to put more pressure on the Pakistani government. He stated that the educational system in Pakistan must be based on human rights and fundamental freedoms to achieve a free and democratic Pakistan. Van Bommel also drew a connection between the rise of Islamic fundamentalism in Pakistan and global security threats.
Role of Jamaat and international funding
Chris Blackburn, who could not attend due to illness but sent a video message, spoke about the influence of Jamaat, funded by the Pakistani Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and supported by Gulf States. These funds have supported their activities and public relations in the West, leading to social and security issues in Europe and North America.
Widely supported conference
The conference was attended by academics, researchers, human rights activists, and members of the Bangladeshi community from various European countries. The conference was broadcast live by British Bangla News and received wide media coverage in the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Bangladesh. A total of 62 participants attended the event.
