In a context of mistrust and misconceptions, GINGKO works to improve mutual understanding between the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and the West. We fund and publish innovative research into the history, art history and religions of the MENA region. We bring together people from MENA and the West for transformative interfaith and intercultural encounters.

GINGKO is a non-political, religiously neutral organisation, committed to non-discriminatory treatment of others in all aspects of our work. We operate in accordance with the UK’s Equality Act. We respect and celebrate diversity.

What do we mean by MENA and the West?

GINGKO has resolved for the moment to continue using the term ‘Middle East’ and the acronym MENA. Although Middle East has problematic connotations, no widely used alternative has yet emerged. GINGKO interprets MENA broadly, to include the following states and territories: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates and Yemen. GINGKO may sometimes extend it to include areas ruled or influenced by the culture and religions of these countries (the ‘Islamicate world’, the ‘Persianate world’ etc).

The West is also a problematic term. We use it because it is broadly, if fuzzily, understood. The ‘West’ for GINGKO has so far mostly meant Europe and North America. But it could also include any other country in the ‘Global North’ or, in some contexts, any country with a dominant Christian culture (e.g. in South or Central America).