Bediüzzaman Symposium opens in Istanbul to discuss global crises

The 13th International Bediüzzaman Symposium, themed ‘Quranic Solutions to Global Crises,’ has commenced in Istanbul. Organized by the Istanbul Science and Culture Foundation, the event brings together academics, scholars, and thinkers from 60 countries and 448 institutions.

During the opening, Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz addressed the current state of global chaos, wars, and social inequalities. He criticized the international system's inability to protect innocent lives, specifically citing the situation in Gaza. Yılmaz also warned against the exploitation of religious figures by organizations like FETÖ, which he described as having ‘mortgaged people's minds.’

Bilal Erdoğan, Board President of the Istanbul Science and Culture Foundation, highlighted the need for global justice. He criticized the United Nations Security Council's veto power for hindering humanitarian responses and noted the inconsistent global reactions to conflicts in Ukraine versus Gaza. British journalist Lauren Booth also spoke, discussing the influence of modern technology and neoliberal politics on human perception and freedom.