Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism

Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism -Draining the resources of extremist and terrorist groups
-Combating Islamophobia
-Producing a balanced discourse characterized by simplicity and tolerance

Welcome to the new Page of al-Azhar Observatory for combating Extremism in English. The aim of the Observatory is to correct the misconceptions and deviant ideologies and introduce the correct and true image of the teachings of Islam. The Page will contain publications, messages, articles and posts of the Observatory in English.

AOCE Participates in Social Service Friends’ Camps in Port SaidAl-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism (AOCE), in c...
25/08/2026

AOCE Participates in Social Service Friends’ Camps in Port Said

Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism (AOCE), in collaboration with the Central Administration for Student Affairs of Al-Azhar Institute Sector, continues AOCE’s interactive awareness workshops in Port Said under the slogan “Insight”. The camp aims to safeguard youth and promote the values of citizenship and intellectual awareness.

AOCE researchers reviewed the AOCE role, objectives, and mechanisms for monitoring and analyzing extremist ideologies. They pointed out the strategies employed by terrorist organizations to recruit young people and explained the importance of building critical thinking skills to distinguish between facts and deliberate misleading propaganda.

Furthermore, AOCE researchers addressed the impact of social media on the moral values and mental health of young people. They warned against the dangers of shifting from interactive use to living within "virtual isolation bubbles" that disconnect individuals from their real life. The discussions raised a pivotal question regarding the extent of our free will in choosing what we consume versus the power of platform algorithms, and how this is exploited to attract young people and gradually push them towards extremist ideologies through subtle and highly sophisticated digital tools.

Moreover, AOCE researcher discussed the issue of digital addiction and its serious repercussions on the physical, psychological, and mental health of children and youth, such as sleep disturbances, poor concentration, social isolation, and academic decline, as the most affected categories. They pointed out that confronting such danger, which lures young minds through impassioned slogans, begins with strengthening human ethics. In addition, developing critical thinking among students became a must to preserve the stability of their societies and their identity.

The interactive workshops highlighted that intellectual awareness and knowledge are the first line of defense and the bulwark of national and moral identity for the younger generation.


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AOCE Participates in Student Union Leadership in AlexandriaAl-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism (AOCE), in colla...
25/08/2026

AOCE Participates in Student Union Leadership in Alexandria

Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism (AOCE), in collaboration with the Central Administration for Student Affairs of Al-Azhar Institute Sector, continues AOCE’s interactive awareness workshops in Alexandria under the slogan “Basirah-Insight”.

With an emphasis on developing a generation of student leaders capable of taking on responsibility and making decisions, as well as improving effective communication, teamwork, and constructive community engagement, the camp aims to train a select group of male and female students from Al-Azhar secondary schools, representing various educational directorates across Egypt.

Additionally, it aims to instill in young people the principles of diversity, moderation, and combating radical beliefs.
During the camp's awareness sessions, AOCE’s researchers addressed the mechanisms of intellectual polarization via social media networks. They discussed the psychological and social dimensions of excessive digital platform use and its addictive effects, emphasizing the pivotal role of these virtual environments in shaping the intellectual trends and awareness of the youth groups most actively engaged with them.

Furthermore, AOCE’s researchers reviewed the tools of critical thinking and its importance in scrutinizing information flows and distinguishing between true and fake online content, explaining the linguistic and stylistic methodologies for detecting such content, analyzing the cognitive obstacles to sound thinking, most notably emotional biases and prejudice.

This participation highlights the pivotal role of the Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism in shifting awareness-raising discourse from theoretical frameworks to direct, practical application with students, thereby helping build an intellectual bulwark against modern attempts at polarization.


20/08/2026

The Grand Imam Receives Somali Ambassador to Discuss Academic and Religious Cooperation

The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Ash-Sharif Prof. Ahmed El-Tayeb received on Monday, 19 August, Ambassador of Somalia to Cairo to discuss ways of strengthening the academic and religious cooperation.

The Grand Imam stressed the depth of the long-standing ties between Al-Azhar and the people of Somalia, highlighting that many Somali scholars have received their education at Al-Azhar Ash-Sharif. He also noted that about 59 Al-Azhar envoys are currently serving in Somalia, teaching the Azhari curricula and enhancing the values of moderation.

His eminence confirmed Al-Azhar’s readiness to further enhance its scholarly and religious support to Somalia, and to receive more Imams for training at Al-Azhar International Academy for Training Imams and Scholars, in response to the needs of the Somali community. His Eminence also gave orders to increase the number of Azhari delegates to Somalia in various fields of Islamic sciences and the Arabic language, in line with the priorities identified by the Somali side.

For his part, the Somali Ambassador expressed his pleasure at meeting the Grand Imam and his country’s appreciation for the academic and religious support provided by Al-Azhar, as well as for his efforts in supporting the African continent. His Excellency affirmed his country’s keenness to benefit from Al-Azhar’s expertise in training imams and scholars, and to follow its moderate approach in promoting the values of moderation and positive coexistence. He also underscored the need to meet the Somali community’s demand for qualified religious and academic personnel capable of addressing contemporary ideological challenges.

Top News:One of Regional Australia’s Largest Mosques Opens in YoungA new mosque—one of the largest in regional Australia...
19/08/2026

Top News:

One of Regional Australia’s Largest Mosques Opens in Young

A new mosque—one of the largest in regional Australia—has opened in Young, New South Wales. The new facility can accommodate up to 1,000 worshippers, replacing a makeshift venue established in the 1990s that held nearly five times fewer people.

𝑩𝒆 𝒂𝒏 𝑰𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝒕𝒐 𝑺𝒖𝒊𝒕Building Self-Esteem 🤍It is narrated that once, when Amr Ibn Abi Salama was a little boy, he used to ...
18/08/2026

𝑩𝒆 𝒂𝒏 𝑰𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝒕𝒐 𝑺𝒖𝒊𝒕

Building Self-Esteem 🤍

It is narrated that once, when Amr Ibn Abi Salama was a little boy, he used to roam his hand freely in the dish while eating. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) told him, “Mention Allah’s name, eat with your right hand, and eat from what is in front of you.” The Prophet (PBUH) was used to give kind speeches along with clear instructions and useful advice. He never chastised a child nor reminded him of his previous transgressions. A child who receives too many reprimands does not become righteous; instead, they become frustrated and lose confidence.


𝑨𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑬𝒚𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝑨𝑶𝑪𝑬 See less
17/08/2026

𝑨𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑬𝒚𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝑨𝑶𝑪𝑬

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AOCE Highlights Counter-Extremism Efforts to a Delegation from the Islamic University of MaldivesAs part of its pioneeri...
13/08/2026

AOCE Highlights Counter-Extremism Efforts to a Delegation from the Islamic University of Maldives

As part of its pioneering role in countering extremist ideology, the Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism delivered an extensive academic lecture to a visiting delegation from the Islamic University of Maldives. The event was held under the generous patronage of Professor Mahmoud Seddiq, Acting President of Al-Azhar University, and under the supervision of Dr. Reham Salama, Executive Director of the AOCE.
This engagement came in the framework of the Maldivian delegation's participation in a specialized training program on the “Methods and Strategies for Teaching the Glorious Qur'an and Its Sciences,” organized by the Al-Azhar University’s International Center of Excellence and Institutional Development, headed by Prof. Yasser Helmy.
Delivered by Dr. Abdullah Abdeen, Head of the AOCE English Unit, the lecture outlined the mechanisms the AOCE employs to moniter the movements and activities of terrorist organizations across various media and digital platforms. During the session, Dr. Abdeen emphasized that the strategy of the AOCE goes beyond the mere tracking and analysis of terrorist phenomena. It actively seeks to dismantle extremist discourse at its roots, refuting ideological misconceptions and extremist narratives through rigorous, scholarly methods grounded in sound legal and rational proofs.
Dr. Abdeen also explained how the AOCE—through its various units—strives to present an alternative Islamic discourse that highlights the true essence and tolerance of Islam. This includes decisively debunking the fabrications and rumors propagated by extremist groups to distort religious concepts and divert individuals from the authentic faith.
For their part, members of the Islamic University of Maldives delegation expressed deep appreciation for the exceptional efforts undertaken by the AOCE in combating radicalization. They noted that exploring the AOCE methodology for addressing misconceptions provides a valuable cognitive and practical framework that reinforces the values of moderation and peaceful coexistence.

AOCE Launches First 'Social Service Office Friends' Camp in Port Said Under 'Bassira' InitiativeThe inaugural activities...
13/08/2026

AOCE Launches First 'Social Service Office Friends' Camp in Port Said Under 'Bassira' Initiative

The inaugural activities of the 'Central Social Service Office Friends' camp for Al-Azhar secondary school students have commenced in Port Said. This initiative is part of 'Bassira,' a joint collaboration between the AOCE and Al-Azhar Institutes Sector’s Central Administration for Student Welfare. It aimed at safeguarding youth and fostering values of citizenship and intellectual awareness.
The camp was held under the generous patronage of Professor Ahmed El-Sharkawy, Head of the Al-Azhar Institutes Sector; supervised by Prof. Reham Salama, Executive Director of AOCE and Dr. Nawal Hosny, Head of the Central Administration for Student Welfare; and with broader participation from Al-Azhar secondary school students.

The events at the Abed Girls' Youth Hostel began with an interactive session led by Ms. Mariam Abdel-Jawad, a researcher in the English Unit. She outlined AOCE objectives and operational mechanisms for monitoring and analyzing extremist ideologies across multiple languages, emphasizing Al-Azhar's pioneering role in spreading enlightened thought and countering extremism through dialogue.

Ms. Esraa El-Zaher, a researcher in the Turkish Unit, addressed the negative impacts of social media, highlighting major risks such as wasted time and academic distraction. She noted how notifications and short video clips impair concentration and academic performance, alongside the psychological stress caused by comparing oneself to unrealistic images promoted online, which can lead to diminished self-confidence, heightened anxiety, social isolation, and sleep disorders. Concluding her remarks, Ms. Esraa stressed that the objective is not to sever ties with technology, but rather to develop the mindful awareness needed to manage it effectively so it does not hinder future success.

At the Abu Alaa Boys' Youth Hostel, Mr. Ahmed Hassan, a researcher in the French Unit, discussed the dynamics of interacting with digital platforms. While acknowledging their benefits for knowledge exchange and information sharing, he warned of inherent risks such as intellectual contagion and the spread of rumors, misinformation, and hate speech, underscoring the necessity of conscious and responsible digital engagement.
Additionally, Mr. Ahmed Abdel-Aal, a researcher in the Arabic Unit, delivered a lecture entitled 'Role Models: Influence and Impact—Toward More Conscious and Moderate Youth.' He explored the concept of role models and their psychological role in shaping youth behavior. Mr. Abdel-Aal emphasized that the Islamic educational framework integrates knowledge with practical action, where moral behavior is absorbed through observation and lived experience before verbal instruction.

Citing examples from the biography of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), his Companions, and prominent scholars, Mr. Abdel-Aal explained that emulating righteous role models acts as a vital safeguard for building a balanced personality and protecting young minds from extremist ideology and deviant behavior, while cautioning against superficial role models devoid of moral values.

Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Offers Condolences to Families of “Livelihood Martyrs" at the Dawawis Road Accident, and Prays fo...
12/08/2026

Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Offers Condolences to Families of “Livelihood Martyrs" at the Dawawis Road Accident, and Prays for the Speedy Recovery of the Injured

His Eminence Ahmed El-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, extends his sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the families of the victims of the collision involving two vehicles transporting a group of day laborers on the “Dawawis Link Road” in Ismailia Governorate, which resulted in a number of fatalities and injuries.

The Grand Imam highlighted that these individuals —who set out in pursuit of lawful livelihood and strove to provide for their families—are among those whom Allah has promised to gather on the Day of resurrection in the company of the Prophets, the people of truth, the martyrs, and the righteous—what honourable company!

The Grand Imam further expressed his deep condolences and solidarity with the victims’ families, praying that Almighty Allah envelop the deceased in His vast mercy and forgiveness, grant them a place in His spacious Paradise, and inspire their families with patience and solace. He also prayed for the swift recovery of the injured and for the protection of the nation and its citizens from all harm and misfortune.

AOCE: “Ambassadors of Moderation” launches Outreach workshops in Sinai for GirlsAl-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extre...
12/08/2026

AOCE: “Ambassadors of Moderation” launches Outreach workshops in Sinai for Girls

Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism (AOCE), in collaboration with the Islamic Missions Sector, organized the first camp for female international students as part of the "Ambassadors of Moderation" initiative in El-Tor, South Sinai. This camp marks a significant milestone in AOCE’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable awareness programs that equip young people with the knowledge and critical thinking skills needed to identify, confront, and refute extremist ideologies through a comprehensive, logical, and methodical approach. The program focusses on promoting the concept of moderation, raising awareness of contemporary issues, and preparing a promising generation equipped with the intellectual tools and sound religious discourse to confront extremist and hateful rhetoric and eliminate fanaticism.

As part of its efforts to cultivate a new generation of informed and resilient youth, AOCE’s researchers delivered a series of interactive lectures and discussions addressing key contemporary intellectual challenges. The five-day program covered the following themes:
- AOCE’s Objectives and mechanisms for monitoring and analyzing extremist discourse
- The importance of promoting a culture of coexistence, acceptance of others, and cultural diversity as a source of human enrichment
- Linking the spiritual heritage of Sinai to the ethical and educational values of the Holy Quran.
- The role of young women in combating extremism.
- Using critical thinking in combating rumors and stereotypes.

Beyond its intellectual and educational activities, the camp also featured a cultural and field program designed to deepen participants’ understanding of Egypt’s rich religious and historical heritage. Participants visited several landmarks, including: the Springs of Moses, Mount Sinai, Al-Sahabah Mosque, the Islamic Cultural Center, among other historical and cultural sites.

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