The controversial ‘clash of civilisations’ theory is the subject of a special one-day conference organised by the GLA on Saturday 20 January.

The view has been put forward that the world is going into an era of conflict and war driven by a clash of civilisations. The Mayor’s policies are based on the exact opposite idea: that the multicultural city is part of creating a new concept of world civilisation that corresponds to a globalised world.

This conference will debate these contrasting approaches and their implications. The conference will feature a debate between the Mayor and Daniel Pipes, Director of the Middle East Forum, an American think tank that advises US policymakers on the Middle East. He has argued that ‘there is not so much a clash of civilisations as there is one of civilisations vs. barbarism.’

Other sessions will see scholars and policy-makers discuss the impact of international events on London's communities and examine issues such as religious tolerance, human rights, diversity and the approach to multiculturalism. More information about conference speakers and sessions.

Admission to the conference is free, but you must register in advance - complete the online registration form, or call 020 7983 4838 or email conference@london.gov.uk.

The conference will take place at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, Broad Sanctuary, London SW1. Nearest Tube: Westminster.

Transport for London's Journey PlannerFind out how to get there by public transport using Transport for London's Journey Planner (opens in new window).