ISLAMABAD: Challenges to peace and justice arise largely from misinterpretations and actions of its followers rather than from the essence of the religion itself. Manipulated religious teachings used for personal, political or ideological gain often fuel conflicts. In this context, common ground for global unity can be created through diverse paths by teaching and embodying the true essence of faith, a press release said.
This was stated by Judge Dr. Syed Muhammad Anwar, Judge of the Federal Sharia Court, at the closing session of an international symposium entitled “The Role of Religions in Promoting Peace, Harmony and Justice,” held at the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) Islamabad. Khalid Rahman, Chairman, IPS, Ambassador (Retd) Syed Abrar Hussain, Vice Chairman, IPS, and Professor Dr. Mohiuddin Hashmi, Dean, College of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad, also spoke at the session.
Justice Syed Anwar drew attention to Pakistan’s unique constitutional and symbolic recognition of religious minorities, and highlighted the reflection of religious inclusivity in the national flag and its definition of minorities. Unlike many countries, the Pakistani framework views minorities on the basis of religious beliefs only, and not on caste, color or creed, ensuring equal constitutional rights for all citizens. However, he acknowledged that the ideal of equality is not always reflected in practice, and urged a renewed focus on teaching and promoting the true values of religion.
Exploring the contrasting experiences of minorities in secular and religious states, the speaker noted that secular states often face challenges in ensuring the safety and rights of minority populations. He stressed the multifaceted nature of this issue, noting that religious communities need to prioritize spreading their core messages of peace and mutual respect.
Offering his insights on the way forward, Khalid Rahman emphasized the complexity of creating a just environment, stressing that prevailing narratives and structures are often shaped by powerful elites who primarily benefit from the status quo. He stressed that the challenges attributed to religion are equally rooted in the governance and decision-making processes dominated by these elite groups.
He said the inequalities and conflicts observed globally are not a result of religious teachings but stem from systemic issues perpetuated by those in power. Highlighting the global arms trade as an example, he noted that the largest arms producers are also countries calling for peace, illustrating the contradictions in elite-led policies.
He called for a critical examination of governance structures and the roles of all stakeholders, urging a shift from blaming religion to addressing the social, political systems and economic interests that lead to inequality and conflict.
Earlier, Ambassador Abrar Hussain shared key takeaways from the symposium, noting the enduring importance of religion in addressing humanity’s quest for peace, justice and harmony amidst modern challenges. He stressed that while secularism and religiosity dominate many societies, religions continue to offer a unique moral framework necessary to promote inclusivity, empathy and coexistence. He reaffirmed that faith communities must reflect and engage collaboratively, focusing on moral appeal rather than coercion, to counter the misuse of religion for purposes of violence, prejudice or political agendas.
The session concluded with a call for collective responsibility by Dr. Mohiuddin Hashemi. He urged religious leaders and faith communities to combat the violence and prejudice prevalent in all religions, by teaching and embodying the true essence of their religions.
