In August 2026, Athens hosted the ROPES Annual Summit, bringing together both alumni and new participants from Israel, Palestine, and across the MENA region, including Morocco, Sudan, Tunisia, Libya, Syria, and Gaza.

Against the backdrop of a fragile ceasefire following months of intense war between Israel and Iran, emerging leaders gathered at a moment of profound regional uncertainty to explore the challenges of radicalization and the ways communities can work toward a more peaceful and inclusive future.

The summit focused on counter-radicalization through public diplomacy, strategic communication, education, media, storytelling, and dialogue. Participants examined how narratives and information environments can deepen division, while exploring approaches that strengthen resilience and create space for greater understanding.

The gathering also created opportunities for participants to meet people from across the region whom they had never encountered before, challenging assumptions and broadening perspectives through direct conversation and shared experiences.

Rather than focusing solely on differences, participants identified areas of common ground and began building relationships that can continue beyond the summit. The mix of returning alumni and new participants allowed existing connections to deepen while bringing fresh perspectives and ideas into the ROPES network.

The summit demonstrated the importance of creating spaces where emerging leaders can listen to one another, engage across divides, and develop the relationships and understanding needed to contribute to a more peaceful and cooperative Middle East.