The Pluralism Project at Harvard University

Country: Jordan
Type of Organization: Non-Governmental Organization
Constructive Practices: Intergovernmental and NGO networking

Mission

According to the website, “JICRC was established with the aim of using research, dialogue and practical initiatives to promote values of peaceful interfaith coexistence.” The organization plans to act “as [a] mechanism to mediate the divide that is being perpetuated by mutual fears and misunderstandings.” JICRC aims to “constitute initiatives for building and broadening interfaith coexistence and mutual respect between religions, giving the highest priority to addressing the urgent problems of misunderstanding and violence through the provision of comprehensive, objective and accurate studies of the problems involved.”

The founder of JICRC, Father Nabil Hadad from the Melkite Catholic Church stated, “JICRC is built upon the belief that an approach of togetherness is needed to build upon the faith that all religions guide us to God, and there should be no differences in values and morals. JICRC calls for mutual respect and dignity for all people as human beings by emphasizing that we are all children of Adam.”

Description

JICRC assists governments, organizations and individual decision makers regarding questions of religious beliefs. Scholars as well as visiting students and volunteers conduct research on various religious issues pertaining to the needs of these various groups. The organization is highly respected in the country and is well connected with the royalty, the government, the judicial system and the clergy as well.

History

JICRC was established in 2003 after the events of September 11, though members of its board had considered creating an organization of this kind for over 20 years. It is founded by H.E. Father Nabil Hadad who is currently the executive director and a board member of JICRC. He is also a member of Jordan's Royal Commission on Human Rights. The organization is currently funded by the Jordanian government, USAID, the US embassy and local churches. JICRC is careful to accept funding only when there are no strings attached.

Membership and Staff

Chairman: Sheikh Tamimi, Chief Justice and special advisor to His Majesty on Islamic Affairs
Vice Chairman: Sami Gammoh, Former Minister of Finance, President of Jordan International Insurance Company

Members of the Board:
Bishop Riah Abulassal, Presiding Bishop of Jerusalem and Middle East Episcopal Church
Nuha Mayata, President of General Federation of Jordanian Women
Sheikh Dr. Hamdi Murad, Former Undersecretary for Ministry of Islamic Affairs
Dr. Norma Nemeh, Academic Director, School of International Training

Staff:
The Center has 3-4 full time staff and is assisted by many volunteers.

Programs and Events

Currently, JICRC is concentrating its interfaith efforts on local, regional, and international dimensions:
-Women for coexistence: explores violence against women and problems facing women more generally.
-Imams for coexistence: sends groups of imams to the US to meet with religious leaders and witness American multi-culturalism.
-Youth for coexistence: hosts activities such as the Christmas charity orphan event.