Category: Projects

PARTES Project Concludes, Evolves into PARTESS-COM

On June 16, the PARTES project culminated in its final conference in Vienna, gathering researchers, faith-community representatives, and security experts. Over its two-year duration, the project focused on protecting places of worship. It was made possible by financial support from the European Commission’s Internal Security Fund (ISF) and saw fifteen partners from ten European countries collaborate on this vital initiative.

The European Commission’s DG Home’s representative underscored the crucial role of Union Actions projects, like PARTES, in tackling transnational issues affecting the entire EU. At its core, PARTES aimed to bolster the protection of places of worship by fostering a deeper understanding of violent extremism and its potential impact. Its six key objectives included mapping threats, assessing vulnerabilities, and facilitating the exchange of best practices among diverse religious communities.

A critical aspect addressed was online threats, with a presentation by SCENOR detailing how extremist organizations exploit digital platforms to spread right-wing hate. This analysis revealed a significant shift in strategy: unlike in the past, these groups now actively conceal their true ideologies and objectives by masking their hate. This tactic allows them to evade moderation and reach a broader audience.

The project also introduced the “PARTES Guardian approach,” which prioritizes engaging faith communities and incorporating their concerns to ensure protective measures are culturally and spiritually appropriate. To further support these efforts, PARTES developed 23 “action sheets” – practical, step-by-step best practices gathered from 10 partners, covering areas like interfaith dialogues and mental health crisis guidelines. The conference concluded with acknowledgements to the dedicated team members, technicians, and security personnel who contributed to its success.

Euro-Arab Foundation Article Highlights Rising Vulnerability to Hate Crimes

During the final event of PARTES, the Euro-Arab Foundation, José Luis Salido Medina, exposed the results of his research on Extremism and Places of Worship: Analysis of Strategies and Ideological Motivations, conducted as part of the project. The article examines the increasing vulnerability of religious communities to hate crimes driven by extremist narratives. It presents findings from an analysis of 25 case studies of hate crimes and violent attacks across 13 European countries. The research delves into the ideological and strategic characteristics of extremist groups involved, considering factors such as the perpetrator’s ideology, the nature of the attack, online/offline dimensions, and the presence of manifestos.

The final event of the PARTES project marked a significant milestone, signalling its transformation into PARTESS-COM. This evolution is a testament to the substantial work accomplished and the robust networks established during the project’s tenure.

Tags delitosdeodio

EN Hatedemics News Projects

The Euro-Arab Foundation Addresses Misogynistic Violence and Incel Communities at International Anti-Discrimination Conference

On June 12nd, Murcia hosted the International Conference Against Underreporting of Discrimination and Hate Crimes. Organized by Columbares, this conference was a crucial event for addressing the concerning reality of low reporting rates in cases of discrimination and hate crimes.

The event’s opening featured Rosa Cano, director of Columbares, who emphasized the urgency of combating intolerance in light of the worrying underreporting data. Also present were Ana Vanesa Valero García (Vice-Rector for Continuing Education at the University of Murcia), Leopoldo Olmo Fernández-Delgado (Secretary-General of the Ministry of Social Policy, Families, and Equality for the Region of Murcia), and Pilar Torres (Councillor for Social Welfare, Family, and Health for the City of Murcia). The Director-General for Family Diversity and Social Services of the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs, and Agenda 2030, Patricia Bezunartea Barrio, participated remotely.

One of the standout presentations at the conference was given by José Luis Salido Medina, a researcher at the Euro-Arab Foundation, titled “The Violent Face of Misogyny: Manosphere and Incel Communities.”

During his presentation, the researcher delved into the incel movement, exploring its origin and context within the ecosystem of misogynistic movements and the so-called “manosphere.” The talk critically addressed the intrinsic relationship between hatred and violence, examining the common elements that underlie both and how these manifest specifically in the case of incel communities. Finally, Salido offered a concise reflection on a prevention paradigm specifically applicable to addressing misogynistic movements and the incel phenomenon, highlighting the importance of proactive strategies to combat these violent ideologies.

The conference also served as the platform for the presentation of the book “Breaking the Silence.” The result of research by Columbares, the book compiles testimonies from victims of hate crimes in various contexts (public spaces, social media, homes) and addresses topics such as LGTBIfobia, aporophobia, and racism. These accounts offer deep insights into the victims’ experiences, their reporting processes, and the consequences on their daily lives.

Tags hate speech, hatecrime, manosphere, misogyny, racism

News Projects VANGUARD

The Euro-Arab Foundation Highlights the Role of Ethical AI in the Fight Against Human Trafficking at High-Level Conference in Malta

The Euro-Arab Foundation for Higher Studies participated in the “Empowering Change: Technology and AI in the Fight Against Human Trafficking” Conference, held on June 11, 2025, in Malta. The event, organized under the Maltese Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, brought together experts and global leaders to explore the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in eradicating this heinous crime.

During the conference, Karen Latricia Hough, researcher at the Euro-Arab Foundation, presented the innovative Horizon Europe Vanguard project in a crucial panel titled “AI and Human Rights.” Hough’s intervention underscored Vanguard’s commitment to developing technological tools that, in addition to being highly effective, strictly adhere to legal and ethical principles.

The conference served as a vital platform for dialogue among governments, international organizations, law enforcement agencies, academia, and civil society. Key topics addressed included the use of innovative technologies to dismantle trafficking networks, the human rights implications of AI use, and the need to foster intersectoral partnerships for a more robust global response.

Among the invited speakers were Professor Siobhán Mullally, UN Special Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons and Director of the Irish Centre for Human Rights; the OSCE Special Representative and Coordinator for Combating Human Trafficking; and Petya Nestorova, Executive Secretary of GRETA. The conference was attended by law enforcement agents, academics, experts, and representatives from NGOs. In particular, Dr. Hough discussed how the research team is ensuring that the technological tools created in the Vanguard project align with legal and ethical requirements.

The date coincided with the 20th anniversary of the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings, reaffirming the commitment of member states to innovative, rights-based responses in the evolving digital environment. This landmark instrument aims to ensure that AI technologies are developed and deployed in ways that fully respect democratic values, protect human rights, and uphold the rule of law – including in the crucial fight against trafficking in human beings.

VANGUARD Consortium Meeting

Researchers from the Euro-Arab Foundation attended the fourth VANGUARD consortium meeting in Lisbon to discuss the results of the Horizon Europe Vanguard project. The event took place at the judicial police office in Lisbon, where technological tools, including facial recognition and emotion recognition tools, were showcased. Researchers also discussed in depth the next steps for the project, which include policy roundtables and publications.

Tags THB, TráficoHumano

News Projects Rebel EN

We participate in the REFUGIN Project Final Conference emphasising ethical refugee integration

The Euro-Arab Foundation for Higher Studies recently participated in the REFUGIN Project Final Conference, held on May 30^th in Lisbon, Portugal. The conference served as a vital platform for professionals from across Portugal and Europe to share insights, reflect on project outcomes, and explore future strategies for the inclusion and integration of individuals in refugee-like situations.

The Euro-Arab Foundation’s researcher, Rascha Albaba Acosta, delivered a presentation highlighting the critical need for ethical and human rights- compliant inclusion of refugee populations in Europe. She stressed the importance of fostering and establishing national and cross-border cooperation mechanisms to effectively address the needs of these communities.

The REFUGIN Project, an IPS-partnered initiative, promotes a dual, inclusive approach by empowering refugees as active participants in their integration journey and mobilising civil society to create supportive, welcoming environments through shared responsibility.
The conference brought together diverse stakeholders to exchange best practices and discuss lessons learned, reinforcing the collective commitment to enhancing refugee integration across the continent.

Tags Ethics, European Projects, refugees

EN Hatedemics News Projects

Evaluating the HATEDEMICS Project’s Platform against Hate Speech

The Euro-Arab Foundation for Higher Studies played an active role in the pilot session organised to evaluate the functioning of the HATEDEMICS project platform. This European initiative aims to develop innovative tools for the detection and analysis of hate speech online, as well as for the promotion of alternative narratives.

The test session, held at the Museum of Andalusian Autonomy on Thursday 22 May, was attended by staff from project partners, including the Euro-Arab Foundation for Higher Studies, through its researcher Lucía G. del Moral; the Maldita Foundation, the Andalusian Studies Centre (organiser of the session), as well as education specialists, journalists and professionals from various NGOs and civil society organisations. Participants were able to interact with the functionalities of the tool, providing valuable comments and suggestions for its optimisation.

The Euro-Arab Foundation’s involvement in this project underlines its commitment to promoting coexistence, respect and the fight against all forms of intolerance and discrimination. Its participation in the evaluation of the HATEDEMICS platform is an important step in ensuring that this tool is robust and useful in combating hate speech in the digital environment.

The HATEDEMICS project, funded by the European Union, brings together academic institutions, civil society organisations and technology experts from various countries. The platform being developed will enable researchers, practitioners and the general public to better understand the dynamics of hate speech and contribute to its prevention and mitigation.

Tags hate speech

ERAMUS KA ADULT en News Projects

New International Erasmus+ Events for June, July and August

The School of Solidarity Foundation is opening the registration period for three interesting international projects co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme, of which the Euro-Arab Foundation is a member. These opportunities offer participants the chance to live enriching experiences in Sweden, Italy and Germany, with expenses covered by the Erasmus+ programme, which aims to improve the quality and accessibility of continuing education throughout Europe.

The first event, ‘Carnival of Culture’, will take place from 2 to 10 June in Berlin, Germany. This event will offer an immersion in cultural diversity through the vibrant atmosphere of a carnival, fostering intercultural exchange and understanding.

Secondly, from 16-20 July, Turin, Italy, will host the meeting ‘Hospitality and Inclusion in Turin: The Role of the Third Sector’. Participants will investigate the crucial role of third sector organisations in promoting hospitality and inclusion in urban contexts.

Finally, ‘Permaculture and Diversity: A Tool for Change for the LGBTQIA+ Community’ will take place from 16-23 August in Ljungbyholm, Sweden. This project will explore how the principles of permaculture can be applied to the LGBTQIA+ community.

EUKH EN News Projects

The Euro-Arab Foundation at the 2nd National Congress on Terrorism and Prison in Cádiz

The Palacio de Congresos in Cádiz was the venue for the II National Congress on Terrorism and Prison held from 20 to 23 May. The event brought together experts, professionals from the sector, victims of terrorism, academics, civil associations and social organisations to debate and reflect on the evolution of organisational and ideological extremism with criminal results.

The congress addressed crucial issues such as policies and strategies against terrorism at international and national level, intelligence in prison systems, the terrorist threat in the prison environment, research and terrorism in this field, the role of female jihadists, radicalisation processes, as well as the impact of prison on those convicted of terrorism, the academic view of radicalisation and trends in radicalisation.

Among the participants were Javier Ruipérez Canales, Director of Research and Projects at the Euro-Arab Foundation and Director of Strategic Communication at the European Knowledge Hub for the Prevention of Radicalisation of the European Commission, who took part in the session on policies and strategies against terrorism at an international level, on Tuesday 20th. Likewise, Daniel F. Pérez-García, Researcher and Head of International Projects at the Euro-Arab Foundation, took part in the last day, addressing trends in radicalisation.

EN Hatedemics News Projects

The Euro-Arab Foundation takes part in the meeting of the Spanish Network against Hate Crimes

This Tuesday, the online meeting of the Spanish Network against Hate Crimes and Infradenunciation (REDOI) took place, a meeting that brought together various actors committed to the fight against this problem.

María Pina, President of REDOI, welcomed the participants and highlighted the main objectives of the network: to promote scientific-technical knowledge, disseminate good practices, offer practical content, foster collaboration and networking, and facilitate citizen mobilisation and awareness-raising. She also reviewed the trajectory of REDOI since its birth in 2022, its formal creation in 2023 and its current expansion phase (2024-25), marked by the organisation of conferences, congresses, dissemination activities and meetings.

During the meeting, testimonials from REDOI members were shared, reflecting the spirit of collaboration and the positive impact of the network. The current status of REDOI, a statewide network that works with an interdisciplinary approach to combat hate crimes and encourage reporting, was also presented. Lucía García del Moral, researcher at the Euro-Arab Foundation for Higher Studies, reiterated her organisation’s commitment to REDOI and the importance of working together, joining the European funding initiative and supporting the possible integration of REDOI into a European network that is in the process of being set up.
Project

Future projects

Currently, REDOI’s work is framed within the project ‘BREAKING THE SILENCE’, funded by the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumption and Agenda 2030, which also includes interviews with victims, a manual for reporting, the II International Conference and a podcast of testimonies.

In addition, a new international project promoted by Columbares was also presented during the online meeting, with the aim of expanding collaboration networks at European level in the fight against hate crime.
The meeting served to address the tasks that REDOI will implement in 2025, including the 2nd International Conference, the reorganisation of the network’s structure, the establishment of more efficient communication mechanisms and the expansion of the network itself.

The 6th REDOI meeting was presented, which will be held in a hybrid format on 12 June in the Assembly Hall of the Faculty of Education at the University of Murcia.

data quality en News Projects

Online workshop on how to improve discrimination data management

On May 9th, the Euro-Arab Foundation for Higher Studies held an online workshop for civil society organisations, within the framework of the European project DATA EQUALITY, financed by the European Union. This meeting aimed to analyse current practices, challenges and good practices in the collection, management, analysis and exchange of data related to discrimination and was led by Euro-Arab researchers Rascha Albaba Acosta, Paula Cano Cruz and José Luis Salido Medina.

The session was interactive and participatory, allowing participants to share their experiences and perspectives on the topics discussed. The workshop was attended by representatives from different European countries, including Greece, Italy, Spain and Albania, who shared their knowledge and good practices on data management related to discrimination.

This activity is part of Task 3.1 of the DATA EQUALITY project, which focuses on improving the understanding of how different actors collect, manage, analyse and share data in the context of discrimination. The project, which will run for 24 months from September 2024, aims to develop a shared European methodology to enable civil society organisations, law enforcement and judicial agencies to cooperate more effectively in the management of discrimination data.

Digivet-en News Projects

VR DIGIVET continues to promote digital skills in Albanian VET

The Euro-Arab Foundation for Higher Education has participated in two workshops with the aim of enhancing the digital skills of vocational training teachers in Albania, on the one hand, and students, on the other hand. These workshops have been carried out online between 7 and 8 May and have been organised in the framework of the European project VR DIGIVET in which Euro-Arab is part of the consortium.

Both teachers and students had the opportunity to share experiences, perspectives and opinions on the use of digital technology tools in Albanian Vocational Training centres, such as Artificial Intelligence or Virtual Reality.

Gaps and opportunities of digital tools in Albanian VET

The Euro-Arab researchers Lucía García del Moral and Jusaima Moaid-azm Peregrina are the authors of the study carried out in the context of the European VR DIGIVET project, which analyses the digital skills gaps and opportunities in Albanian VET schools.

According to this report, both staff and students are lacking in the ICT and Tourism sectors, the two main sectors of study in this project as a priority for the development of the Albanian economy. The main challenges identified are limited access to technology, insufficient infrastructure and lack of professional development opportunities. These problems are most pronounced in rural areas where the digital divide is most acute.

Despite these gaps, the report reveals positive attitudes towards Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality, such as the general interest shown in the adoption of these tools. They also point out that academic curricula need to be adapted to improve employability and meet industry demands.

The report’s recommendations include: support and continuous professional development for VET staff, expanding access to digital infrastructure and accessibility for all, including learners and staff with special needs, and cross-sectoral collaboration between educational institutions, government agencies and the private sector to overcome systemic challenges and drive innovation in the Albanian VET system.