Ramadan and Lent at the European Parliament
An Interreligious Dialogue on Human Fraternity and Religious Pluralism
This year, the observance of Ramadan and the Catholic season of Lent coincide, offering a powerful reminder of shared spiritual rhythms across traditions. While theological understandings differ, fasting across religions reflects common values: humility, compassion, self-restraint, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to justice and peace.
In this spirit, EULEMA is honoured to organize an interreligious dialogue at the European Parliament, bringing together members of the European Commission and Parliament to discuss universal European values, human fraternity, and religious pluralism, culminating in a shared meal breaking the fast.
This offers a meaningful opportunity to transform dialogue into lived experience and foster inclusive citizenship as a model for social cohesion and a counterforce to hatred and discrimination.
In an increasingly multicultural and multireligious Europe, understanding different religious traditions goes beyond cultural knowledge—it is essential for building trust, enabling respectful dialogue, and creating truly inclusive societies. These shared moments strengthen mutual understanding and inform better policy decisions, directly reflecting the EU’s founding principle of “United in Diversity.”
