The event, organised by the Committee for Interreligious and Interconvictional Dialogue of the Conference of Non-Governmental Organisations (CINGO) hosted by the Parliamentarians Frank Schwabe (Germany) and Gusty Graas (Luxemburg). A recording of the session can be found on the Council of Europe INGO website.

Given the many current conflicts, the eminent speakers addressed the importance of promoting mutual understanding, respect and needed exchange between different faith traditions and beliefs in Europe. The Commissioner for Human Rights, Michael O'Flaherty emphasised, in particular, the need for a permanent platform that would bring together religious and non-religious communities. Such a forum would serve as a mechanism for dialogue on human rights, democracy and social cohesion and contribute to the Council of Europe's broader mission of protecting fundamental rights, freedom and promoting peaceful coexistence. The President of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, M. Marc Cools, highlighted the urgent need for more interreligious and interconvictional dialogue at local level.

The European Buddhist Union (EBU) is actively participating in initiatives for inclusive spaces where different faith communities can interact on the basis of shared values. It is to be welcomed if these first steps could be followed up so that a permanent dialogue platform can be established in the Council of Europe within the closest possible timeframe.