The 72nd radio program as part of the Center for Research and Security Studies’ (CRSS) counter-radicalization initiative Ulasi Taroon (Social Cohesion) was aired on June 14, 2019, on the theme of “Multiculturalism and Social Cohesion”.
The first guest on show, Mr. Muzamil Khan Mohmand, an advocate by profession, noted that commitment to the values of multiculturalism can strengthen cohesion in the society. Social cohesion nurtures when multiculturalism and diversity are embraced and celebrated where people from diverse social, religious and cultural backgrounds respect each other despite differences and celebrate their cultural and religious festivals together. Having such a communal attitudes and practices can foster mutual trust and cooperation critical for the country’s social capital.
He added that youth – being the major user of social media – can employ the positive use of this platform to promote tolerance perspectives and peaceful coexistence among the communities of different faiths and cultures. The educational curriculum can also be utilized to strengthen social cohesion through the inclusion of information about different cultures and their positive aspects. The role of religious scholars is also crucial in this regard; especially to promote interfaith harmony.
“Cultural, religious and traditional diversity is not detrimental to social cohesion but rather an opportunity and connector for peace”, he concluded.
The second guest on show, Ms. Sara Anam, a psychologist and social activist, opined that the peaceful coexistence of the diverse communities requires tolerance for differences and respect for fundamental rights. The communities rich in religious diversity should celebrate their religious and cultural festivals together to foster better understanding, trust and unity among them.
Youth have a huge leverage to bring a positive change in the society and should put their efforts in the community development through sensitization on the virtues of diversity.
Only by respecting people with differences in terms of religion, culture, tradition etc., can we expect to have a cohesive society capable of formulating shared goals for the prosperity of the country.
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.