Following is the text of the Abu Dhabi Declaration issued by
the forum at the end of the conference:
"We, the undersigned Danish and Muslim delegations, met for a
dialogue forum organized by the Tabah Foundation in Abu Dhabi
between the 14th and 1yth of April 2006 in an atmosphere of mutual
cooperation and respect. Our sole purpose was to know one another
and exchange our shared hopes, fears and concerns. Through open
and honest discussions we succeeded in building bridges of understanding
and enduring friendships.
Our gathering reflected our conviction that dialogue is a critical
element of a civilized society. It provided us with an opportunity
to recognize our differences and begin breaking down the barriers
that prevent us from finding common ground. While we did not
agree on all the issues, we did learn a great deal about one
another. The Danish delegation in particular acknowledges that
their knowledge of Muslim faith and practice has been enhanced
greatly. They have gained a much better understanding of how
deeply Muslims love and respect the Prophet Mohammed, peace be
upon him.
We understand that dialogue is a process: sometimes unpredictable,
sometimes difficult but always rewarding - so long as the primary
aim continues to be the desire to extend a loving hand to our
neighbors.
We live in a globalized world - one in which different national,
cultural and religious groups are faced with the inevitable challenge
of coexistence. Recognition, understanding and respect between
neighbors and fellow citizens are more vital than ever before.
We call for a "good-neighbor policy" in a global village opposed
to intolerance, racism and the stigmatization of ethnic and religious
groups. We acknowledge the right to question and critique beliefs,
values and ideologies, while recognizing the distinction between
questioning and ridicule.
When a conflict arises, we will endeavor to understand the causes
of disagreement or hurt. We will strive, through a process of
dialogue, to reach a point where we can offer one another the
courtesy and respect essential to live together and contribute
to our common society. This does not mean that we will not disagree,
but rather that our disagreement will not express itself in forms
now known to be counterproductive to a pluralistic society.
We do not subscribe to the notion of a ‘clash of civilizations’.
As young people, we found that common values can bridge national,
cultural and religious boundaries. Our challenge is to reconcile
our multiple identities in an increasingly complex modern world.
An important part of our future lies in acknowledging that Islam
and Muslims are an integral part of Europe’s diverse communities.
We are committed to further partnerships and initiatives between
Muslim and non-Muslim youth organizations and institutions in
Denmark, Europe and the Muslim world that will continue to pursue
this dialogue. The Tabah Foundation and the Danish Youth Council
have committed themselves to concrete steps in this direction.
17/4/2006".
