Many of the world' s leading Muslim leaders, scholars and thinkers are gathered in Istanbul today to attend a two-day conference ( 1-2 July 2006 ) addressing the challenges and opportunities currently facing European Muslims.

SEE FULL PROGRAMME AND LIST OF SPEAKERS HERE:
http://www.muslimsofeurope.com/program.php

The publication of cartoons demonizing the prophet Mohammed across Europe and the violent reactions this has provoked amongst Muslims living in Europe and the Middle East , has thrown into sharp relief the issues surrounding tolerance and understanding.

In this international context the voice of European Muslims needs to be heard, endorsing this international message but also setting out the parameters of the debate on European Muslim identity.

While there are now a number of very important dialogues and discussions between Muslim community leaders and the representatives of European states there is still a lack of comprehensive, inclusive and open arenas to bring together Muslim intellectuals and leaders from various ethnic and linguistic backgrounds and engage them in formal discussion to look at some of the most pertinent issues that face European society vis-à-vis the Muslim community.

Issues such as combating extremism, citizenship, identity, faith and its public role are highly charged topics that need to be addressed carefully, but directly and without delay. The focus for this conference is ' Europe ' because there is a common legacy of migration, minority status and culture that is distinct and the event should allow for interaction, discussion, dialogue and opportunity for new networks to be created.

http://www.muslimsofeurope.com

[b]
What result do you think this conference will bring out? And how do you see the future of Muslims in Europe?[/b]