18th-20th June 2025
Tirana, Albania
Overview
ALForum: Where your Voice and Knowledge Matter Most
The ALF together with the Municipality of Tirana and the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Albania will bring together around 1,000 participants including civil society and academic entities, young leaders, media outlets, influential figures, governments and institutions representatives, policymakers and other relevant stakeholders from 43 countries to transform the Euro-Mediterranean region.
The ALF together with the Municipality of Tirana and the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Albania will bring together around 1,000 participants including civil society and academic entities, young leaders, media outlets, influential figures, governments and institutions representatives, policymakers and other relevant stakeholders from 43 countries to transform the Euro-Mediterranean region.
2025 Theme: The Dialogue Effect
From Knowledge to Action: Redefining Dialogue in the Euro Mediterranean Region
In times of global uncertainty, dialogue might seem not powerful enough to address the challenges we face. Yet, when the world is shaken to its core, collective dialogue becomes not just a solution, but often the only way to move forward. Like the butterfly effect, the power of dialogue may not always be immediately visible but its impact is undeniable. Every decision, every initiative, and every transformative action begins with a conversation. A conversation to understand, connect and create change.
In the vibrant city of Tirana, Albania
A place known for its rich cultural heritage, dynamic energy, and strategic location. This choice celebrates Tirana as Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue 2025, a prestigious title awarded annually by the Anna Lindh Foundation and the Union for the Mediterranean.
The Forum will take place in three main locations:
Its grand hall is perfect for plenary sessions, and the additional spaces provide excellent opportunities for exhibitions and creative sessions. It will also host several parallel sessions.
The Opera House symbolizes our commitment to highlighting the role that arts and culture play in fostering dialogue and understanding.
National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania
The hotel’s facilities are well-suited for complementary parallel sessions, and its proximity to the Opera House within a minute’s walk makes it an ideal location for logistical convenience.
International Hotel of Tirana
The heart and compass of the Forum. This central location serves as a vital liaison between the ALF and Albanian citizens, hosting open spaces and free musical performances. The square represents our commitment to making arts and culture accessible to everyone and highlights the importance of networking. It will provide a vibrant, interactive environment that bridges our Forum with the Albanian local community.
Skanderbeg Square
The ALForum 2025 is structured around three core dimensions inspired by our slogan:
INSPIRING KNOWLEDGE
DRIVING ACTION
UNITING CULTURES
Through dialogue, we make it happen
WHAT TO EXPECT
3
Days
+500
Speakers
90
Creative
Artists
+100
Sessions
12
Networking Activities
15
Artistic Performances
Plenaries take place at the main hall at the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania
June 18
09-10 am
Opening
Speakers:
HRH Princess Rym Ali
President, Anna Lindh Foundation
Igli Hasani
Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Republic of Albania
Anuela Ristani
Acting Mayor, Municipality of Tirana
Master of Ceremony: Khadija Maalej
Senior Project Manager, BBC Media Action
09.20-10.20
Bridging Cultures and Religions in the Euro-Mediterranean Region: Reflecting on the UNAOC Two Decades of Dialogue for Humanity
Speakers:
Miguel Angel Moratinos
Under-Secretary-General, High Representative for UNAOC and United Nations Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia
George Andreas Papandreou
Prime Minister, Hellenic Republic (2009-2011)
Egemen Bağış
Former Minister for European Union Affairs and Chief Negotiator of the Republic of Türkiye
Mladen Ivanic
Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina (2016-2017; 2014-2015); Member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina (2014-2018)
Prof. Michele Capasso
President of Fondazione Mediterraneo, Architect and Engineer
Moderator: Nihal Saad
Director UNAOC
15.00-16.00
Maysoon Zayid: Dialogue. When to Listen, When to Leave
Speaker:
Comedian Maysoon Zayid’s hilarious talk will tackle the difference between dialogue and gaslighting. She will show you how to become a more active empathetic listener and how to most effectively use your power for good instead of evil
Maysoon Zayid
Comedian, best-selling author ,and disability advocate
June 20
09.00-10.00
Straight From the Youth’s mouth: Putting the people-to-people and cultural dimension (back) at the heart of Euro-Mediterranean relations
Drawing from their own experiences and analysis, four youth representatives involved in ALF programmes will reflect on the importance to reinforce the “people-to-people and cultural dimension” in Euro-Mediterranean relations at this critical juncture, and will interact with HRH Princess Rym and the Director General of DG MENA at the European Commission Stefano Sannino. The session will be facilitated by the ALF Executive Director Josep Ferré
Speaker:
HRH Princess Rym Ali
President, Anna Lindh Foundation
Stefano Sannino
Director General for the Middle East, North Africa and the Gulf, European Commission
Moderator: Josep Ferré
Executive Director, Anna Lindh Foundation
Eliane El Haber
Member, ALF Youth Advisory Board
Denia Nicolas
Beneficiary of the ALF Mediterranean Youth in Action Programme; Community Engagement & Youth Work Practitioner
Abdulatif Sleibi
Beneficiary of the ALF Mediterranean Youth in Action Programme, Senior Data Analyst, PAX for peace
Nazih Toubal
Beneficiary of the ALF Mediterranean Youth in Action Programme, Project Manager (REVOLVE) and Researcher (Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona)
13.30-14.30
Farewell
Speaker:
HRH Princess Rym Ali
President, Anna Lindh Foundation
Blendi Gonxhja
Minister of Economy, Culture and Innovation, Republic of Albania
Stefano Sannino
Director General for the Middle East, North Africa and the Gulf, European Commission
Remzi Lani
Executive Director, Albanian Media Institute, ALF Head of National Civil Society Network of Albania
Josep Ferré
Executive Director, Anna Lindh Foundation
Master of Ceremony: Khadija Maalej
Senior Project Manager, BBC Media Action
3 DAYS
Experience 3 unforgettable days that truly have it all—from knowledge sharing and hands-on learning to celebrating, connecting, and even dancing. It is a full-on experience of everything we aspire to see in the Euro-Mediterranean future. Connection, inclusion, creativity, resilience and everything in between, brought to life through knowledge, action, and culture.
Inspiring Knowledge Driving Action
100+ Sessions
With 10 focus areas, the ALForum parallel sessions tackle the most urgent and inspiring priorities shaping the Euro-Mediterranean region. These sessions are led by a diverse range of voices from civil society and academic institutions to young leaders, media outlets, influential figures, policymakers, and representatives of governments and international organisations. Whatever your area of expertise, what you hope to learn, or the insights you wish to share, you’ll find it reflected here!
12 Networking Activities
We take networking seriously. Bringing together 1,000 participants from 43 countries and diverse backgrounds is a responsibility we take to heart. This is why our networking activities are designed to go far beyond just saying hello.
We have planned 11 different networking activities that will take place during the coffee breaks of the parallel sessions. All designed to turn your Forum experience into something richer and more meaningful, Whether you’re looking to explore new opportunities, exchange ideas, get inspired, or simply meet new people, we have got you covered.
Networking Activities take place daily at the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania and Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center and the International Hotel of Tirana
All Day Activities
1. Mr. Bin's Stereotypes and Judgements Recycling Drop-off
Implemented by: Gentian Minga, Social Issues Facilitator, Albania
Location: The National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania and Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center
This interactive activity invites participants to engage in honest self-reflection, open dialogue, and collective unlearning as a means of strengthening inclusion and mutual understanding across the region. Find Mr. Bin around the ALForum premises, take a recycled item and reflect on what Euro-Mediterranean prejudices, stereotypes, and misconceptions you hold and why. Practice vulnerability and share your own biases with other participants before disposing of your item.
2. Spin the Wheel of Action
Implemented by: Milica Bilanović and David Altarac, Artistic Duo, Bosnia
Location: The National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania
This interactive public art installation invites participants to spin a large “Wheel of Action” incorporating the 10 thematic priorities of ALForum. Each spin reveals a short prompt encouraging meaningful social interaction, intercultural dialogue, or micro-activism. The artists will act as facilitators, welcoming visitors, guiding them through the meaning of each prompt, and inviting them to share insights, stories, or spontaneous collaborations with others.
3. A Collaborative Journey of Colours
Implemented by: Haifa Tekouti, Visual Artist, Tunisia
Location: The National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania
An interactive mural connecting artist and audience by bringing Euro-Mediterranean cultures together. Participants are given blind cards inviting them to pick up a brush and contribute their own strokes, symbols, or stories to the collective canvas, expressing what Euro-Mediterranean identity means to them. As elements are added, the mural becomes a living tapestry of shared experiences, diverse perspectives, and cultural connections.
4. Live Drawing and Photographing the Faces of the Euro-Mediterranean
Implemented by: Mostafa Abdel Aty and Mohamed Elshenawy, Visual Artist Duo, Egypt
Location: The National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania and Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center
This interactive activity invites ALForum attendees to become part of a living portrait series that celebrates the diversity of the Euro-Mediterranean region. A visual artist and a photographer will collaborate to create live drawings and photographic portraits of participants throughout the Forum.
5. Make the ALForum Tote Bag Yours!
Implemented by: Besma Lebbihi and Moussa Douar, Visual Artist Duo, Algeria
Location: The National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania and Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center
A vibrant creative workshop centred around the reproduction of original Moorish-inspired designs on tote bags. Combining their unique artistic visions—Besma’s intuitive, socially engaged illustrations and Morris’s dynamic Pop Art infused with Mediterranean heritage. Participants will be invited to explore the cultural roots and symbolism behind the patterns, encouraging meaningful dialogue on identity, tradition, and cross-cultural influence. Each attendee will leave with a personalised artwork, embodying both individual expression and shared heritage.
Scheduled Networking
1. Spot the Similar
Implemented by: Reka Si Organisation
Led by four community artists from Egypt, Jordan, Italy, and Spain, this dynamic 30-minute activity uses meaningful objects to explore shared cultural and personal themes. Through storytelling and creative interaction, participants place objects in relation to others, forming a ‘map of relational connections. Blending performance, play, and intercultural dialogue, it’s an energising ice breaker that inspires connection and reflection.
2. Moving Triangles: Dialogues in Motion
Implemented by: Mostafa Ahmed, Facilitator and Arts Manager, Egypt
Brief: A networking activity harnessing music, movement, and short reflective prompts to foster connection and intercultural understanding. Participants dance or move freely, then form groups of three when the music stops to briefly introduce themselves and respond to a culturally themed question before the music resumes.
3. Past Meets Present: Stories that Shape Us
Implemented by: Keszey Judit, Researcher and Creative Editor, Hungary
Brief: Inspired by the past, this storytelling activity features interactive elements such as a memory wall, common points mapping, and conversation spaces. The insights generated will be brought together in a collective mental map—illustrating how, despite our diverse origins, languages, and identities, we are deeply connected by common threads.
4. Two Languages, One Story
Implemented by: Humart Performance Group, Cyprus
Brief: Inspired by the bilingual reality of the island of Cyprus, Humart invites participants to explore communication as a means of connection. Following insights from facilitators, attendees will engage in ice-breaking activities where pairs introduce themselves, each speaking in their own language. Body language and puppets, such as the iconic Karagiozi figure used in Greek and Turkish theatre, will be used as tools.
5. Portraits of the Mediterranean
Implemented by: La Cerise Sur Le Gâteau Association, France
This cross-disciplinary activity tangibly expresses uniting cultures, promoting tolerance and living together through art, photography, and literature. Engage with postcards celebrating powerful Mediterranean visuals and the poetic musings of Mediterranean authors writing about peace. Share reflections and step into the photobooth for a personal portrait to include in a Mediterranean mosaic, capturing the diversity, unity, and hopes of the region.
6. Mosaic of Shared Stories
Implemented by: STPLN Organisation, Sweden
Brief: A heartwarming creative activity where conversations spark connection and art celebrate community! Using recycled materials gathered in Tirana, you’ll exchange collage pieces through thoughtful prompts like “What brings you joy?” or “Who inspires you?” to create a unique mosaic that tells the story of your shared experience. As you meet new people, you’ll become part of each other’s artwork—forming a colourful symbol of unity and diversity to take home.
7. Culture Match – Swipe & Connect
Implemented by: Wasla Arts Organisation, Egypt
Brief: A fast-paced networking game that uses gamified speed-matching, participants explore shared artistic interests, funding needs, and collaboration ideas. Each receives a Wasla-style profile card with prompts, rotating every three minutes to connect and choose Swipe Right – for future collaboration or Swipe Left – and move on. Connections and project ideas are then posted on the Wall of Opportunities.
15 Artistic Performances
Feel the Euro-Mediterranean region come alive through music, movement, food, art. Every evening in Skanderbeg Square, we will create a special space to celebrate the diversity, creativity, and shared spirit of the region, and to connect with the people of the hosting country too.
Above The Skin
Art Without Barriers
Bel Afrah: An authentic Lebanese Wedding Celebration
Bulgaria’s Folklore
Clown Ventures: A Bus Full of Smiles
Cooking Together for Change
DrumTik Circle
Flamenco, Lament of The Heart
Mizmar of Egypt
Our Cultural Passports
The Albanian Story
The Euro Med DJ
The Magical Parade
Tunisian Rboukh: Dance for Peace and Resistance
A Journey Through Moroccan Culture
We are currently putting the final touches on the agenda to make sure every detail is just right so all participant can take part in every moment. You can already get a glimpse of the exciting experiences we are preparing, but please bear with us a little longer. We promise it will be worth the wait!
Agenda
18 JUNE 2025
- HRH Princess Rym Ali, President, Anna Lindh Foundation
- Igli Hasani, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Republic of Albania
- Anuela Ristani, Acting Mayor, Municipality of Tirana
- Master of Ceremony: Khadija Maalej, Senior Project Manager, BBC Media Action
- Jaafar Abdul Karim, TV Presenter and Journalist
19 JUNE 2025
- Edi Rama, Prime minister, Republic of Albania
- Miguel Angel Moratinos, Under-Secretary-General, High Representative for UNAOC and United Nations Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia
- George Andreas Papandreou, Prime Minister, Hellenic Republic (2009-2011)
- Mladen Ivanic, Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina (2016-2017; 2014-2015); Member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina (2014-2018)
- Egemen Bağış, Former Minister for European Union Affairs and Chief Negotiator of the Republic of Türkiye
- Prof. Michele Capasso, President of Fondazione Mediterraneo, Architect and Engineer
- Moderator: Nihal Saad, Director, UNAOC
- Maysoon Zayid, Comedian Best-Selling Author and Disability Advocate
20 JUNE 2025
- HRH Princess Rym Ali, President, Anna Lindh Foundation
- Stefano Sannino, Director General for the Middle East, North Africa and the Gulf, European Commission (tbc)
- 4 Young Leaders
- Moderator: Josep Ferré, Executive Director, Anna Lindh Foundation
- HRH Princess Rym Ali, President, Anna Lindh Foundation
- Blendi Gonxhja, Minister of Economy, Culture and Innovation, Republic of Albania
- Stefano Sannino, Director General for the Middle East, North Africa and the Gulf, European Commission
- Remzi Lani, Executive Director, Albanian Media Institute, ALF Head of National Civil Society Network of Albania
- Josep Ferré, Executive Director, Anna Lindh Foundation
- Master of Ceremony: Khadija Maalej, Senior Project Manager, BBC Media Action
Side Events
“Memories of the Mediterranean – From Antiquity to Modern Times – In the Collections of the National Library of Albania” (Books, Manuscripts, Maps, and Engravings from 1300–1800).
Exhibition open on June 18, 2025, at the premises of the National Library of Albania in Tirana, and will remain open to the public for a period of one month.
Read More
On June 18, 2025, on the occasion of Tirana’s designation as the Mediterranean Capital for the year 2025, the National Library of Albania will inaugurate the exhibition entitled “Memories of the Mediterranean – From Antiquity to Modern Times – In the Collections of the National Library of Albania: Books, Manuscripts, Maps, and Engravings from 1300–1800.”
This exhibition is anticipated to be one of the largest and most significant cultural events organized by the National Library in recent years. It will feature more than 700 original works, including books, manuscripts, maps, and engravings produced and printed between the 14th and 19th centuries, all drawn from the institution’s collections.
The exhibition is structured into several curated sections, each highlighting key aspects of the Mediterranean’s cultural and historical legacy:
- Greco-Roman Antiquity: This section showcases some of the earliest European editions of classical Greek and Latin authors, published between the 15th and 17th centuries. Featured authors include Pliny the Elder, Aristophanes, Aristotle, Strabo, Cicero, Theophrastus, Diodorus Siculus, Euclid, Demosthenes, Ptolemy, Appian of Alexandria, and others.
- Byzantine Heritage: This section presents a selection of important Byzantine works that form a cornerstone of the National Library’s manuscript and book holdings.
- The Venetian Collection: Covering the period between the 15th and 18th centuries, this section reflects the vital role of Venice as a hub of European Renaissance culture. It includes rare and valuable works published by renowned Venetian printers and publishers such as Paolo Manuzio, Bernardino Benali, and Girolamo Albrizzi etc.
- An important section is that dedicated to the Orient in general, with particular emphasis on the Ottoman Empire.
- Thematic Sections:
- “Only One God” – Dedicated to the monotheistic faiths that shaped the spiritual and cultural landscape of the Mediterranean.
- “Geographers and Travelers”
The exhibition will conclude with a dedicated section focused on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.
Side Events
“The Odyssey of the Mediterranean”
June 20, 2025, at 4:00 PM
Agimi Art Center, Tirana
As part of Tirana’s designation as the Mediterranean Capital of Culture 2025 and within the framework of the ALForum, the NGO Argjiro, in partnership with the Creative Industries Agency of the Municipality of Tirana and the French Embassy in Albania, is organising a special cultural event:
Read More
Program
4:00 PM – Screening of the short film: The Odyssey of the Mediterranean
A poetic journey of youth through shared cultural heritage.
This collaborative short film, produced by Héritage & Civilisation (France) in collaboration with Argjiro (Albania) and supported by the French Embassy in Albania, was recently presented on May 23, 2025, during the Positive Cinema session at the Cannes Film Festival.
Created by high school students from nine Mediterranean countries, including Albania, the film gives voice to youth as they explore local traditions, landscapes, and stories. Through the symbolic journey of a single drop of water traveling across the Mediterranean, the film reflects on identity, memory, and the shared future of the region.
Following the screening, a panel discussion will take place with the participation of:
Jonid Jorgji, Director of the Creative Industries Agency – Municipality of Tirana
Lara-Scarlett Gervais, Founder of Héritage & Civilisation (France)
Ilda Mara, Director of Argjiro (Albania)
With the presence of the Albanian students who participated in the project from the bilingual French sections of selected high schools in Tirana, Shkodra, Durrës, Elbasan, and Korça, supported by the French Embassy in Tirana.
“The Odyssey of the Mediterranean” is an inspiring example of how art, education, and intercultural cooperation can empower the next generation to reimagine the Mediterranean as a space of connection, empathy, and shared responsibility.
Initiated in January 2024 by Héritage & Civilisation in partnership with a network of French embassies across the region, the project brought together youth to write, film, and share their own stories—each segment representing a symbolic stop in a shared Mediterranean journey.
Join us to celebrate their vision, creativity, and message of hope.
Main Partners
Funding Partner
Institutional Partners
Media Partners
