In 2007, we granted $20,000 (EUR 15,000) to NEF for academic meetings to discuss research on religion and democracy in Europe. NEF is a not-for-profit international organisation established in Brussels in 1977. It develops research programs relating to Europe and its role on the global stage.

The research we fund is a response to increased religiosity in Europe, and will address ways in which Europe can peacefully adjust, accommodate and incorporate this new religiosity without compromising secular democratic freedoms. It aims to help policy-makers, civil society organisations, the public and press to better understand new realities about the position of religion in Europe.

To fulfil its mission, NEF is engaging with European journalists and youth forums to frame important issues. It is also asking prominent academics to prepare position papers on the place of religion in contemporary European societies, and to make recommendations on appropriate actions by policy makers and other stakeholders in Europe. The findings, policy implications and advocacy issues resulting from this research will be presented in symposiums and seminars at the end of 2007.