Christian communities in the Middle East are on the verge of virtual disappearance in the very lands where their faith was born, even as they have deep historical, theological, cultural and social roots in the region.  Against the background of the deep history and rich religious roots of these communities, Dr Hratch Tchilingirian will discuss the critical challenges facing Christianity in the Middle East today, in the face of wars, religious extremism, sectarian conflicts, socio-economic decline and migration.

Admission: £5

Talk followed by Q&A and a wine reception.

Dr Hratch Tchilingirian is an activist scholar. In recent years he has drawn attention to the plight of minorities and Christian communities in the Middle East, especially in academic and policy-making circles. Following his PhD at the London School of Economics, he was director of research on Eurasia at Cambridge University’s business school for ten years. Since 2012, he is Associate of the Faculty of Oriental Studies at University of Oxford, focusing on Middle Eastern and Armenian studies. Dr Tchilingirian has lectured internationally and is the author of numerous studies and articles (www.hratch.info). He remains deeply engaged in civic causes and professional projects.