Date/Time
Date(s) - 23/09/2026
12:00 - 14:00
Location
Press Club Brussels Europe
Categories
From Gaza to Brussels: How the Middle East conflict is reshaping perceptions of Europe
The war in Gaza and wider instability across the Middle East are reshaping perceptions of Europe. Across Arabic-language media, debates over Europe’s credibility, commitment to international law and role as a global actor have intensified, while narratives of Western “double standards” have gained traction. Russia and other actors have sought to amplify these grievances through state-backed media, disinformation networks and online influencers. By contrast, Syria presents a more nuanced picture, with discussions around reconstruction and re-engagement highlighting Europe’s potential influence and economic role.
Join BBC Monitoring’s regional specialists for an insightful discussion on how conflict, disinformation and shifting geopolitical dynamics are transforming perceptions of Europe across the Middle East. Drawing on their extensive expertise in media narratives, influence operations and disinformation, they will explore how conflict, reconstruction and energy security are directing the contest for influence, legitimacy and public opinion across the Middle East.
Key discussion points:
- How is turmoil in the Middle East reshaping perceptions of Europe?
- Why have narratives about Western and European “double standards” gained prominence? Are competing actors capitalising on existing grievances?
- How do these narratives intersect with debates around Nato, Ukraine and security on Europe’s Eastern Flank?
- And what does this mean for Europe’s influence, credibility and strategic interests?
Event details:
- Date: Wednesday 23 September 2026
- Registration: From 12:00
- Discussion: 12:30-13:30
- Location: The Press Club Brussels Europe, Rue Froissart 95, 1040 Brussels
- All registrants will be reviewed before being approved. If your attendance is approved, we will email you the exact details of the event.