A new organization dedicated to combating antisemitism and promoting interfaith dialogue has officially launched its activities in Europe under the name ETHAN — Engagement to Halt Antisemitism and Negationism. The organization aims to address the growing concerns surrounding hate speech, antisemitism, Holocaust denial, and social divisions across Europe, while encouraging peace and coexistence among different religious communities.

A Response to a Worrying Rise

Speaking at the launch, co-chair Manel Msalmi described a climate of growing concern that made the establishment of ETHAN both necessary and urgent. Europe, and Belgium in particular, has witnessed a troubling increase in antisemitism in the period following October 7.

Msalmi stressed the importance of encouraging dialogue and strengthening initiatives that promote tolerance and understanding between communities. She also highlighted a dimension of ETHAN’s work that extends beyond the European continent — the organization intends to focus on the significance of the Abraham Accords and their broader implications for stability and economic prosperity, both in the Middle East and in Europe.

Youth, Business, and Building Bridges

Co-chair Raphael de Macar brought a perspective shaped by years of work at the intersection of business, interfaith relations, and social cohesion. His emphasis on youth engagement and economic cooperation reflects a conviction that durable peace must be built from the ground up — across generations and across sectors.

De Macar added that creating common ground through business opportunities and social entrepreneurship could play a key role in strengthening relations between communities across Belgium and Europe — translating dialogue into tangible cooperation and shared purpose.

Programmes and Plans

The newly established organization plans to bring together civil society groups, policymakers, educators, and business leaders to counter extremist narratives and encourage cooperation. ETHAN’s approach is rooted in the belief that sustainable coexistence requires sustained engagement at every level of society — particularly among young people who will shape the continent’s future.

The launch comes at a time when several European countries are reporting increasing concerns over antisemitic incidents and growing polarization within societies, prompting renewed calls for stronger interfaith engagement and educational initiatives. ETHAN’s founders believe that organizations operating at the intersection of faith, business, and civil society are uniquely positioned to make a meaningful difference — and that Europe cannot afford to wait.