Les Nouvelles Rencontres d'Averroès reorganizes schedule in Marseille

The Les Nouvelles Rencontres d'Averroès festival in Marseille has announced a reorganization of its programming due to planned social movements on October 31 and potential disruptions near the Odéon Theatre on La Canebière. In consultation with the City of Marseille, organizers have moved several events to October 30 or November 1.

Two specific events have been canceled: the 'Averroès parmi nous' interview and the 'Printemps arabes' masterclass. The masterclass was impacted by the arrest and subsequent release of Egyptian journalist Lina Attalah, director of Mada Masr, following a trial in Cairo that resulted in a heavy fine and an order to close her media outlet. Tunisian journalist Haythem El Mekki will instead join a roundtable discussion on Sunday.

The festival's theme this year, 'Franchir/s’affranchir' (Crossing/Breaking Free), focuses on borders, exile, and the pursuit of justice and dignity amidst regional conflicts and political repression.