An international conference was held in Paris on Sunday, 26 March 2023, on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan to highlight the importance of religious tolerance.
A diverse group of personalities, including religious leaders, human rights activists, former officials and academics were among the participants.
Sheikh Dhaou Meskine, the Secretary General of the State Council of Imams of France, emphasized the need for political change in some Islamic countries, particularly in the Middle East, to pave the way for coexistence among the nations. He underlined the importance of the role of immigrants and refugees in advancing religious tolerance as it has been noted in France.
Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, President-elect of the Iranian opposition movement NCRI, explained that Islam is a religion of compassion and emancipation, not what the rulers of Iran claimed it to be. Islam is not misogynistic but founded on freedom, equality, and free choice for all individuals, regardless of their gender or religion, said Rajavi, adding: “We have staunchly opposed religious compulsion, emphasizing that it runs counter to the teachings of Islam, and citing the Quran to argue that the prophets came to free humanity from bondage.”
Rabbi Moshe Levin, the Vice President of the Conference of European Rabbis and Special Assistant to the Rabbi of France, underscored the importance of unifying society and promoting peace through religious teachings. He praised Mrs. Rajavi and members of her group for their efforts in fostering a new model of prosperity and peace, aligning with the true values of Judaism.
Sheikh Taissir Tamimi, the Chief Islamic Judge of the Palestinian National Authority, was critical of some Islamic states, namely Iran, distorting religious teachings and highlighted the values of peace, equality, and freedom inherent in Islam.
Anissa Boumediene, the former First Lady of Algeria and an advocate of religious freedom and tolerance, shed light on the importance of studying the teachings of the Prophet Mohammad and understanding his respect for women and their role in society. She emphasized that Islam abolishes misogynistic traditions and called for hope and support for the Iranian people in their fight for a true representation of Islam.
Khalil Meroon, the Director of the Grand Mosque of Avery, Paris, criticized the Islamic Republic of Iran for its deviation from the principles of true Islam. He stressed that genuine Islam respects humanity and poses no constraints on others. Meroon commended the role of the opposition movement in Iran and its leader advocating unity in the struggle to restore the true image of Islam recognizing the rights of every individual irrespective of their beliefs and political views.
Other speakers of the conference included, Sihem Badi, former Tunisian Minister of Women’s Affairs; Jalal Ganjei, Chairman of the Committee on Freedom of Religions and Denominations of the NCRI; Anouar Malek, prominent writer and former rapporteur on Syria in the Arab League; Hayel Daoud, former Jordanian Minister of Endowments and Religious Affairs; and Illi Marouni, former Minister from Lebanon
The speakers collectively emphasized the principles of peace, equality, and justice that are deeply ingrained in their respective religions. The messages of these speakers resonated strongly with the call to give prominence to human rights and democratic rights and how the followers of every religion can contribute to this pressing need of every society.
Through their diverse voices, the speakers highlight the collective efforts required to envision a brighter future—a future built on the principles of freedom, tolerance, respect for human rights and equality.