Nationwide activities ‘to counter extremist ideologies’

AMMAN — Jordan will soon launch a plan to fight extremist ideologies and raise awareness among all segments of society of their dangerous impact, according to an Awqaf Ministry official.

Under the projected plan, several activities will be launched starting in May to highlight that extremist ideologies have nothing to do with Islam, Hassan Kureira, head of the guidance and preaching department at the ministry, said in a recent interview with The Jordan Times.

“It is very important to raise awareness among people from all walks of life on how such ideologies are far from being part of Islam, especially at this critical time that is witnessing the emergence of several radical and terrorist groups in the region,” Kureira said.

“We decided to launch the project with a view to strengthening the community to make it immune to any extremist ideologies or terrorist group that seeks to brainwash people, especially youths,” he added.

As part of the plan, the ministry will host Muslim scholars from several countries who will hold seminars, workshops and lectures on the principles of Islam, a religion of moderation and tolerance, Kureira noted.

“Several activities will be held across Jordan — in governorates, towns, districts and remote areas.”

“Terrorism and extremist ideologies should not only be confronted militarily, but also through moderate ideologies that denounce violence, hatred and promote acceptance of others,” the official noted.

“At present, we believe that we need to exert more efforts and that the responsibility is greater than before when it comes to defending Islam and facing extremist ideologies.”