The 47th radio program as part of the Center for Research and Security Studies’ (CRSS) counter-radicalization initiative Ulasi Taroon (Social Cohesion) was aired on December 14, 2018, on the theme of “Peaceful Conflict Resolution”.
The first guest on show, Dr. Jamil noted that the dialogue is the best way to resolve conflicts at the state, organizational or individual level. History explains that the war and violence has never served as a solution of any problem. Only by resorting to dialogue for conflict resolution, and through mutual understanding and empathy, can you expect a sustainable peace. The conflict is a natural response to nature and external stimuli. Wherever the human beings reside, they may have some conflicts with each other or even with nature. The views and ideas among different individuals and groups may vary/ differ based on different perceptions, background and experiences.
Our common perception about the conflict is the disputes and disagreements among individuals, groups, nations and countries. But in case of enlightened people, the conflicts can also be of positive nature which can result in the great developments and advancements in different fields of life. History shows that the use of force has never resolved a conflict, but it is through the table talks and dialogue where the conflicts are resolved. A society that develops the culture of discussion and dialogue is able to resolve internal and external conflicts amicably.
The second guest on show, Mr. Adnan noted that the major conflict drivers are misinterpretations and misconceptions and not paying any attention to the conflicts for their resolution will only worsen the situation. We often discuss and pay attention to armed conflicts but the conflicts inside the families and communities can be extremely detrimental to social cohesion. Conflict resolution should be considered as an important skill to master for all members of the society given the repercussions of mismanaged or ignored conflict.
“The need for deploying conflict resolution mechanisms within the society is on the rise. We should overcome our differences and foster unity in our society. Minorities and Muslims should have cordial mutual relations and convey the message to the rest of the world that Pakistan cares about its minorities”, said Safi Sarhadi, a Peshawar based social worker.
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.