The contribution of artists and intellectuals in promoting tolerance and coexistence

Artists, intellectuals and numerous journalists were part of a round table held by the Bedër Higher Education Institution, within the global universites initiative against violent extremism, this initiative initiated by the White House and US State Department.

"The contribution of artists and intellectuals in promoting tolerance and coexistence" developed as part of the before mentioned project brought together a range of public figures, to mention here: Ms. Margarita Xhepa, Mr. Mirush Kabashi, Mrs Myfarete Laze, Mr. Sokol Angjeli, Mr. Mërkur Bozgo, Mr. Agim Baçi, Mr. Armand Bora, Mr. Pëllumb Vorpsi, Mr. Ilir Hoxholli and numerous representatives of the media and civil society.

The purpose of the event was the union of individuals in a coalition of peace and understanding, as the moderator of the panel Mr. Aleksander Cipa said in his address. Head of the Union of Journalists called the unification of public figures as a noble initiative that makes Beder part of the chain of peace.

As coordinator of the project Mr. Erlis Cela acquainted the participants with the "Spread Values ​​and Peace", which aims through social media to be a voice that opposes extremist discourse by promoting universal values ​​and pro peace.

"We intend to export the model of coexistence and understanding that exists in Albania, as a model for other societies around the world", - he said, adding that the Beder institution is one of 45 universities selected from around the world to be part of this initiative.

Rector of Beder Prof. Dr. Ferdinand Gjana, during his speach, stressed that terrorism in the world today is the result of a degeneration in ideology and interests who are fighting not only against certain groups, but against the peace of everyone. He thanked the participants for showing assistance in solving this global problem and said he sees this initiative as part of the mission of the institution he leads, not just as a university initiative.

Present at the event was the Deputy Head of the Public Affairs Office of the American Embassy Ms. Megan McGill who congratulated the students and staff will for this inclusion in the global initiative against extremism.

"It’s a pleasure for me to join you today to discuss the values ​​of tolerance and your contribution in this regard. We believe that supporting the best ideas of the youth will be effective to combat violence and extremism in the world ", - she said.

Further artists participated in the meeting brought to the attention of those present moments of their artistic lives that testify the understanding reality and tolerance in our country.