Recently, we have heard some voices complaining about the misrepresentation of Islam, Muslims, and Arabs in European textbooks. Tensions between the civilizations are caused by ignorance rather than hatred, so a more positive stance should be taken. Some personal experiences indicate that changes may occur if we make ourselves clear.

If you have come across any misinformation or distortion of the image of Islam, Muslims, and Arabs in European textbooks, send us a message with scanned or attached samples to prove your point. To have a more balanced picture, a positive model or sample should also be sent. Please feel free to send your message in English, French, German, or Dutch.

An international conference “The Image of Arab-Islamic Culture in European History Textbooks” will be held in Cairo, Egypt, from December 12 to 14, 2004. The conference is jointly organized by the United Nations Educational, Social, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the Arab League, the European Program, the Islamic Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ISESCO), and other national and international organizations. Please send us your contribution ahead of the conference.