Who are we?
Ashteret, Forum for the Renewal of Knowledge and Coexistence
Ashteret is an independent initiative born of a simple observation: in the face of identity fractures, extremist traditionalism, and ignorance, only shared knowledge and open dialogue can restore trust and social cohesion.
Our distinct mission: to amplify the voices of those who, from the Middle East or the diaspora, bravely resist Islamism, the culture of hate, and the ideology of violence.
In Arabic, French, and English, we showcase thinkers, activists, researchers, and engaged citizens—people often sidelined by dominant narratives. Through their analyses, testimonies, and struggles, we cast fresh light on Middle-Eastern realities and their political, cultural, religious, and social stakes.
Inspired by Astarte, the ancient symbol of wisdom and mediation, Ashteret strives to build bridges between cultures, between tradition and modernity, and between the Middle East and Europe.
Values
Liberating Knowledge
Knowledge is the first bulwark against hatred.
Ashteret champions free, critical, and accessible learning. In a world saturated with disinformation, independent thinking is an act of resistance.
Rooted Dialogue
Bridges arise where inclusive secularism meets pacified traditions.
Ashteret rejects abstract, disconnected discourse. We promote intercultural dialogue grounded in respect for memories, spiritualities, and identities.
Active Coexistence
Peace is not the absence of conflict; it is the will to transcend it.
Ashteret commits to a real, lucid, and courageous coexistence founded on justice, historical clarity, mutual recognition, and a refusal of identity simplism.
Actions
Multilingual Platform
In Arabic, French, and English, Ashteret gives voice to those who fight for freedom, coexistence, and critical thought.
Events & Conferences
Ashteret hosts exchanges with experts and activists, sparking dialogue on issues in the Middle East and beyond.
Content Production
Articles, podcasts, videos, and translations—in three languages—feed debate, defend pluralism, and resist simplistic narratives.
Educational Projects
We design teaching tools, programs, and initiatives to foster critical thinking and deconstruct entrenched stories.
Ashteret Network
We aim to unite activists, scholars, artists, and citizens around ideas that counter deceptive narratives.
Euro-Arab Dialogue
Ashteret supports intellectual mediation and shared storytelling to renew ties between Europe and the Arab world.
Upcoming Events
Rencontre tables rondes autour de la coexistence au Levant
Conférence F. Alexandre Rifai
Upcoming Events
Rencontre tables rondes autour de la coexistence au Levant
Conférence F. Alexandre Rifai
Podcasts
Publications
Latest Publications