The 53rd radio program as part of the Center for Research and Security Studies’ (CRSS) counter-radicalization initiative Ulasi Taroon (Social Cohesion) was aired on January 25, 2019, on the theme of “Role of Literature for Social Cohesion”.
The first guest on show, Mr. Abaseen Yousafzai noted that if the humans start behaving like animals; dominating and hunting the weaker species and live only for themselves, then there will be no difference between man and a brute. As humans, we should respect each other – as it is also the basic principle of democracy to respect the rights, opinions, feelings and views of others.
The second guest on show, Miss Kalsoom Zeb, a poetess, while elaborating the role of writers and poets, noted that society and literature are quite related; where both affect each other. The writers serve as eyes and ears of the society where they portray their observations through their work. Their work should also depict the positive aspects of the society to foster unity and cohesion.
“There is an equal onus for peace on all members of the society. Therefore, not only poets but every individual is responsible to work for peace. Whatever happens in the society is felt very deeply by the poets and is ultimately reflected through their work. Thus, they have a very crucial role in educating the public”, said a young poet, Mr. Bakht Zada Danish, during the radio report.
About Ulasi Taroon
Ulasi Taroon is a counter radicalization initiative of Center for Research and Security Studies that aims to address the radicalization challenges, extremist ideologies and foster social cohesion through a discourse anchored in the core constitutional values which are fundamentally essential prerequisites for social peace and harmony. The endeavor aims to cultivate and sensitize the people of KP in the core values in the Pakistani constitution and our social contract. It’s an attempt to highlight the criticality of abiding by these ideals – such as adherence to rule of law, primacy and sanctity of constitution, equal citizenry, responsible citizenship, respect for fundamental human rights, tolerance for diversity and different opinions, inclusive democracy and good governance – as a measure of fostering social cohesion and peaceful co-existence.