In late January 2024 in Amman the Dialogue Institute gathered a small group of analysts, to discuss how relations between the MENA region and Europe have been affected by the recent regional developments. The meeting aimed at contributing to a greater understanding of the new challenges that have arisen in light of the deteriorating situation, and to contribute to the exchange of ideas on shortcomings in current dialogue structures and how these can be bridged.
Dialogue between people from different walks of life is at the core of the work of the Swedish Dialogue Institute for the Middle East and North Africa, as inclusive dialogues, whether cross sectoral, intercultural, or intergenerational, play a pivotal role in achieving peace, security, and sustainable development across regions and societies. In past years, alongside its other activities, the Dialogue Institute has hosted several dialogues on EU-MENA relations and on intercultural dialogue. As a continuation of this work the Institute hosted a dialogue meeting in roundtable format, in late January 2024 in Amman. A small group of analysts, mainly from the MENA region and some from Europe, were invited to discuss how relations between the MENA region and Europe have been affected by the recent regional developments.
Throughout the meeting, participants stressed that the relations are at a turning point considering and that there is a growing trust-gap. The participants underlined a need for reflection and for re-evaluation and reimagination of the relationship. At the same time, they stressed that the two regions – Europe and the MENA region – are intimately interconnected and developments in one region affects the other and that we can’t afford to turn our back on each other. It is therefore essential to find new, better, and more equal ways for dialogue and collaboration.
This Report from roundtable meeting on EU-MENA relations summarises some of the topics discussed and ideas and recommendations that emerged.
