The Arab Network for Tolerance has attracted intellectuals, writers, academics, media workers and other people interested in issues related to tolerance in the Arab World. The Network has now 32 members (individual members and member organizations) from 17 Arab countries. Importantly, several representatives from civil society organizations have joined the Network and are able to use it as a focal point for implementing activities in their countries. A detailed list of the Network members is available as an attachment to this report.
The members are of different political, religious and ideological orientation. However, what unites them is a common commitment to promote and protect a culture of tolerance in Arab societies and to oppose violence, racism and fanaticism. The members joined the Network because they believe in the significance of cooperation and that the Network can be valuable for achieving their aspirations of creating a more tolerant Arab society. Members dedicate significant time to Network activities, and are also able to integrate the Network into their organizations’ existing activities on human rights and tolerance.
In coordinating the Network, RCHRS aims to facilitate as much cooperation between the members as possible. RCHRS has therefore ensured that each member, organization and individual, are aware of the activities of the other members in their respective countries. Also, RCHRS’ quarterly journal Tasamuh has published several articles written by a number of Network members, where main issues raised were related to the phenomenon of fanaticism, intolerance and hatred in the Arab world, and which consider the ways to oppose these trends.
