Conference Reports

The Palestinian Israeli Environmental Secretariat (PIES), in conjunction with the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel (SPNI) and Al-Ahliyeh College in Ramallah, held a two-day training for 12 Palestinian and Israeli teachers as part of its "One Blue Sky Above Us" project.

The teachers all come from schools participating in the project, which was launched in June with a first meeting between the teachers at the YMCA in Jerusalem. The training, conducted by the Towns Association for Environmental Quality, concentrated on water, waste water and solid waste which are the main topics of the "One Blue Sky Above Us" project.

The project will twin six schools, three Palestinian and three Israeli, throughout the 1999-2000 scholastic year in an active problem-solving and self-directed environmental learning program. During the program, the students will conduct experiments and investigations both inside and outside the classroom. The Palestinian and Israeli classes will meet at regular intervals, exchange results and information, and investigate the local environmental conditions around their schools. Joint field trips for twin schools are also scheduled to take place.

At the end of the school year, a two-day working conference will be held for all teachers and students of the six schools to discuss possible solutions to the problems identified during the year.

The goals of the project are: To raise awareness about shared environmental problems affecting the region; to foster dialogue and understanding between Palestinian and Israeli youth through environmental learning; and to enable an active, problem-solving approach to environmental education that stresses the interconnectedness between the local, regional and global.

Funding for the "One Blue Sky Above Us" project has been provided by the Swiss government.

For additional information, contact Ms. Victoria Katan, Projects Manager, Palestinian-Israeli Environmental Secretariat, 21 Ikhwan Alsaffa Street, Wadi Joz, P.O. Box 66839, Jerusalem, ISRAEL; phone (972-2)626-6307; fax (972-2)626-2306; e-mail pies@p-ol.com.

Foreign Policies of Middle East States
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews, Scotland, UNITED KINGDOM: July 12-16, 1999

This conference examined the regional arena, foreign policy processes, and state behavior in twelve country case studies, including the main Arab states, Turkey, Israel, Iran and others. It was sponsored by the University of St. Andrews with support from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the British Academy, the University of Durham and the Honeyman Foundation. Seventy academics, officials, students and others from around the world attended.

Delegates first considered the arena in which Middle East states conduct their foreign policies. Several issues were debated regarding the conceptual framework of that arena, particularly the extent to which the region’s autonomy is constrained by economic dependency. A presentation on the role of the great powers by Barbara Allen-Roberson of Warwick University threw doubt on whether the end of Cold War bipolarity meant the ability of the US to act as a hegemon in the region. A panel on the special features of the region debated whether trans-state forces such as Arabism and Islam still represent a constraint on state-centric policies. Country cases studies followed.

Greg Gause (University of Vermont), in a presentation on Saudi Arabia, argued that the Saudi relationship to the US is one of asymetrical interdependence, while on the regional level it pursues a cautious policy of balancing. Looking at Egypt, Ibrahim Karawan (University of Utah) stressed the continuity of an Egypt-centric policy in which a president enjoying wide discretion uses foreign policy to mobilize resources. That on Syria by Raymond Hinnebusch stressed the degree to which state formation has changed Syria from a victim into an actor in the region; Patrick Seale of Oxford University presented observations on Hafez al-Assad’s "realist" foreign policy goals. The discussion of Israel by Clive Jones (University of Leeds) focused on the continuing relevance of realism, particularly in Israel’s security doctrine, while a subsequent discussion debated the role of identity.

A panel on Iran led by Anoush Ehteshami (University of Durham) discussed the reassertion of geopolitics and political culture in foreign policy and Iran’s movement, under globalization, from "neither East nor West" to "both East and West." A panel on Turkey examined its new post-Cold war role, caught between its rediscovery of its Ottoman roots and the continuing "guardian" role of the military.

Among the conclusions reached by the summary panel were that the conditions of asymmetrical interdependence in the region’s relations to the global core require careful specification; that regional identity is complex and multiple rather than uniform in its impact on foreign policy; and that variations in state formation need more attention.

For additional information, contact Prof. Raymond Hinnebusch, Department of International Relations, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, Fife KY16 9AL, Scotland, UNITED KINGDOM; phone (44-1334)462-938; fax (44-1334)462-937; e-mail rh10@st-andrews.ac.uk.

Arab-Israeli Peace: Time to Act
The International Alliance for Arab-Israeli Peace
Cairo, EGYPT: July 5-7, 1999

Delegations of Palestinians, Israelis, Egyptians and Jordanians totaling about 300 people gathered for this conference to demonstrate that there are people on both sides of the Arab-Israeli political process who represent a constituency for peace and who can work together to support it.

The conference was convened to encourage leaders in the region to revitalize the peace process and to make the difficult decisions needed to bring it to fruition. Although marked by controversy, the gathering went forward and included the participation of several prominent individuals from each community, including former Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres.

A number of workshops were also held, which were based on the work of the Alliance’s regional sub-committees. Topics discussed included implementation of agreements, violence, regional cooperation, settlements, and peace culture. The group also gave its support to a set of principles concerning long-term regional peace that are based on the idea of "land for peace" and related UN resolutions (242, 338, and 425). These principles address such issues as Israeli settlements, prevention of terrorism and violence, the right of Palestinians to establish a state, Jerusalem, and others.

The Cairo conference represents the continuing work of the International Alliance for Arab-Israeli Peace, which was founded in Denmark in January 1997. That meeting brought together influential persons from the Egyptian, Palestinian, Jordanian, and Israeli societies, participating in their private capacities and representing a wide range of political trends in their respective countries, but at the same time united by their desire for peace in the region. The Copenhagen Declaration formulated by that forum reflected the ability of Israelis and Arabs to reach agreement on guiding principles for a regional peace.

Funding for the conference was provided by the Danish government and the European Community.

For additional information, contact the International Alliance for Arab-Israeli Peace, c/o the Royal Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 2 Asiatisk Plads, DK 1448 Copenhagen K, DENMARK; phone (45-32)92-00-00; fax (45-32)54-05-33; e-mail louisiana-process@mondo.dk; website http://www.louisiana-process.dk/.

The Human Dimension of Security and the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership
Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies Msida, MALTA: May 14-15, 1999

This workshop brought together academics from twelve Euro-Med partnership countries to foster mutual understanding between those from different cultures who are linked by the same topic of research: The Mediterranean.

The goal of the workshop was to exchange views on critical issues such as democracy, human rights, civil society and cultural dialogue since there are often misunderstandings between the partners on these topics as a result of different definitions of concepts, aims and strategies. Participants attended from Belgium, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Lebanon, Malta, Morocco, Tunisia, and the United Kingdom.

The Euro-Mediterranean Partnership (EMP), launched in Barcelona in November 1995, adopts a comprehensive approach to security, socio-economic development, cultural dialogue and human rights enhancement between 27 countries from both sides of the Mediterranean. One of its main goals is to turn the Mediterranean into an area of dialogue, exchange and cooperation. This workshop was held under the partnership’s chapter on social, cultural and human affairs.

The conference sessions discussed critical issues related to the EMP including the democratization process, cultural dialogue, human rights and civil society. The question of democracy was examined not only by seeking its consolidation in the Southern Mediterranean countries, but also by highlighting the weaknesses of the EU and the double standard it often adopts. Democracy was also explored in connection with the control of armed forces.

Discussion of the cultural dimension of the EMP inevitably led to the relationship between Islamic and Western societies. Some participants noted that, while it is useful to overcome language barriers and foster direct communication through the adoption of a ‘global’ language (i.e., English), cultures must also be respected and preserved. At the same time, the necessity for Islam to develop (‘civilize’) and become more of a global civilization was stressed.

Other discussion topics included the evolution of the concept of ‘human rights’ in international law and its role in the framework of the EMP, as well as an analysis of civil society as one of the main parts of the EMP.

The conference was organized and sponsored by the Italian Chair of Mediterranean Diplomacy and Relations at the Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies. An edited volume of the conference papers and presentations will be published.

For additional information, contact Dr. Stefania Panebianco, Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies, University of Malta, MSD 06 Msida, MALTA; phone (356)48-30-90; fax (356)48-30-91; e-mail s.panebianco@diplomacy.edu; website http://www.diplomacy.edu.

Stability and Prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean
IPCRI, KIMEDE, CCCI, ELIAMEP
Nicosia, CYPRUS: May 9-11, 1999

This conference brought together participants from 17 countries to analyze the framework and establish guidelines for creating a stable and prosperous environment for the people of the Eastern Mediterranean. It was organized by the Israel/Palestine Center for Research and Information (IPCRI), the Cyprus Institute for Mediterranean, European and International Studies (KIMEDE), the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), and the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP).

The topics of discussion included strategic and security considerations; peace and regional cooperation; enhancing regional trade relations; and the international political economy of the region. Special EU Ambassador Miguel Moratinos gave a keynote address in which he appealed to the participants to develop a vision for regional integration within the framework of the EU Barcelona program. Dr. David Kimche of the Israel Council on Foreign Relations put forward the idea of developing Mediterraneanism as a common culture for all the peoples of the region.

In a discussion on security issues, Dr. T.A. Alim, Deputy-Director of the Al Ahram Foundation for Political and Strategic Studies in Cairo, stressed the need for the region to rid itself of non-conventional weapons. Dr. Gershon Baskin of IPCRI and Dr. Kimche both spoke about the existential threats that remain and which pose a threat not only to Israel, but also to Egypt, Jordan, and the Palestinian autonomous areas as well.

Dr. Baskin also stressed that the primary economic and political interest for Israel must be the development of the region’s economies. He believes that Israel must re-examine its economic policies vis-a-vis the Palestinians, particularly by recognizing the importance of allowing the free movement of people and their goods.

Some participants stressed that Palestinians must stabilize their political regime through greater democracy, respect for human rights, and progressive and effective laws. The Palestinian economy must also develop a modern commercial legal structure in order to attract foreign investment.

All of the participants agreed that Cyprus can play a significant role in the advancement of peace in the region, but it too, must make greater efforts to advance peace on the island. It was noted that, in some respects, the Cyprus conflict resembles the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly with regard to the lack of contacts between the sides.

For additional information, contact Ms. Elizabeth Phocas, ELIAMEP, 4, Xenophontos St., Athens 105 57, GREECE; phone (30-1)331-5022-5; fax (30-1)364-2139; e-mail eliamep@compulink.gr; website http://www.eliamep.gr.

Think Tanks as Civil Society Catalysts in the MENA Region: Fulfilling Their Potential
Lebanese Center for Policy Studies (LCPS)
Broumana, LEBANON: February 6-8, 1999

This conference brought together 50 representatives of research centers and policy institutes from the Arab world including Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, the Palestinian autonomous areas, Syria and Tunisia, as well as from Turkey and Iran. The gathering provided the opportunity for participants to discuss vital issues related to think tanks, and to expand and strengthen the regional cooperation networks of their respective institutes. It was organized in cooperation with the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) in Washington, DC, and the Economic Development Institute (EDI) of the World Bank.

The first day of the conference focused on economic development issues in the region and the role that policy institutes could play in encouraging reforms necessary for economic growth. The topics explored included reform and development in the region, regulation and the role of the state, budgeting and governance, and aspects of education sector reform.

In his address opening the conference, Dr. Kemal Dervis, Vice President of the World Bank for the Middle East and North Africa, reflected upon recent changes in development thinking, and outlined key components of the World Bank’s new Comprehensive Development Framework. Dr. Nasser Saidi,the Lebanese Minister of Economy, presented a speech prepared by Prime Minister Salim Al Hoss entitled, "The Role of Policy and Research Think Tanks in the Design and Implementation of Government Policy." Mr. Saidi underlined the challenges to democracy in the Middle East and North Africa, emphasizing the important role think tanks could play in utilizing their research and analysis to further develop democratic culture.

The second day of the conference focused on building the capacity of think tanks and strengthening their role in policy reform, which included a presentation by Dr. Diane Stone, a leading expert on think tanks and transnational policy networks. She discussed how networking among think tanks has not only facilitated the international spread of ideas, but also has become an increasingly important mode of activity for think tanks through which they can sometimes effect considerable influence on domestic and regional policy making.

For additional information, contact Ms. Rosie Nasser, Project Manager, Lebanese Center for Policy Studies, Tayyar Center, Sin el-Fil, Box 55215, Beirut, LEBANON; phone (961-1)490-561/6; fax (961-1)601-787; e-mail info@lcps.org.lb; website http://www.lcps.org.lb.

Cultural Diversity and Islam Conference
Center for Global Peace, American University
Washington, DC, USA: November 20-21, 1998

This conference was organized to examine cultural coexistence in Islam from a variety of perspectives. Current discussions on diversity emphasize conflict between civilizations as the organizing principle of global politics. In this (pessimistic) view, the prospects for constructing bridges across cultures appear dim. Other voices, inspired by an apologetic stance toward Islamic tradition, turn a blind eye towards the erosion of civility in Islamic cultural areas. In the latter case, the conflicts within Muslim societies are neither acknowledged nor accorded the salience they deserve. Panel discussions were structured, therefore, to find ways to move beyond these two perspectives.

Presentations at the gathering were made under four major themes: Cultural Diversity in Civilizational Perspective, Islamic Perspectives on Cultural Diversity, Crisis in Islamic State and Society, and Alternative Models of Coexistence. Approximately 100 people attended.

Some speakers commented on the current narrowing of popular Islamic discourse, particularly as a result of the global mass media. Serif Mardin of American University emphasized, however, the need for Muslims to stop concentrating on outward forces impinging on Islam and to become more self-critical. In his presentation, Mohammed Arkoun, Professor Emeritus at the Sorbonne in Paris, explored ways to find true intellectual pluralism in Islamic discourse and to break the "ideological control" of such institutions as the legal schools and the shari’ah that have existed in normative Islam for centuries.

Seyyed Hossein Nasr, University Professor of Islamic Studies at George Washington University, reminded those at the conference during his presentation that the essential Islamic doctrine of tawhid involves not mere uniformity but also the integration of multiplicity into unity. The fact that Islam embraces so many cultures but has a unitary civilization is indicative of this phenomenon.

Many of the speakers commented on how this unifying, integrating form of diversity is unraveling in the face of modern nationalism, the state, the Western concept of the self, and the form of diversity embraced by contemporary occidental society. It was noted that without a special kind of integrative unity, pluralism and diversity result in conflict rather than integration.

For additional information, contact the Center for Global Peace, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20016-8071, USA; phone (1-202)895-1326; fax (1-202)966-2561; e-mail Tawhid@american.edu; website http://www.american.edu/academic.depts/acainst/cgp/action.htm.