The public discussion brought together two prominent intellectuals - writer and Orientalist Navid Kermani and sociologist and author Natan Sznaider - for a timely and thoughtful exchange on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The event was moderated by Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Dr. h.c. Angelika Nußberger M.A., Director of the Academy, and welcomed an audience of over 45 participants. Kermani and Sznaider, who have corresponded since shortly after 9/11, reflected on their recently published book “Israel: Eine Korrespondenz”, which collects their letters and explores different perspectives on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict - perspectives grounded in both personal commitment and scholarly insight.

Their dialogue addressed the polarising effects of war, the challenges of fostering solidarity across cultural and religious divides, and the urgent need for new frameworks for cooperation.

The event was jointly organised by the  Academy for European Human Rights Protection at the University of Cologne, the Center for Reconciliation Research at the University of Bonn and the Bonn Academy for Research and Teaching of Practical Politics (BAPP).

Bericht: Flávia Oliveira Ribeiro