The Arab Thought Forum (ATF) is committed to the belief that state structures must be developed to serve and be responsive to an active and critical public, which is conscious of its obligations and duties, as well as its rights and entitlements
"The Autumn Conference" suggested by the United States has been discussed in a public meeting organized by the Arab Thought Forum on October 1st, 2007.
The speakers included Qais Abdel Kareem, Azam Al Ahmad and Hani Al masrie, the debate was moderated by Abdel Rahman Abu Arafeh.
In general the participants together with the speakers showed a deep frustration at the expected outcome of the conference.
Azam Al Ahmad, Qais Abdel Kareem, Abdel Rahman Abu Arafeh and Hani Al Masri main speakers in a debate
The lack of clear agenda and terms of reference were among the criticized issues. The lack of an international umbrella was another issue of concern as the invitation and organization are made by the United States and not an international body .
The main question of the meeting is related to whether the conference will be a real breakthrough to a just peace or only a service to the internal US political agenda. Concerns were also indicated as the conference may be used as a tool to change the term of reference for the Palestine – Israeli conflict by downgrading its level to meet the Israeli conditions.
