The 43rd radio program as part of the Center for Research and Security Studies’ (CRSS) counter-radicalization initiative Ulasi Taroon (Social Cohesion) was aired on November 16, 2018, on the theme of “Tolerance of Diversity”.
The first guest on show, Mrs. Malalai Akhtri, a social activist and representative from Bahai community, noted that diversity is beautiful as it is natural and not a manmade phenomenon. Thus it needs to be tolerated and respected. Being intolerant towards differences equates to going against the nature which will definitely create problems and polarization, and cause disintegration in the society. Only by understanding the diversity, can our society enjoy, celebrate and harness the virtues of it. The understanding of diversity requires us to move out and think critical of the preset ideas and stereotypical notions about others.
The diversity can be in terms of language, culture, faith, gender, views etc the society needs education about its existence and benefits for peaceful coexistence. Besides the educational institutions, the education in the ideals of respect, tolerance, equality and acceptance should begin at home; spearheaded by the parents and other family members.
The second guest Dr. Fakhrul Islam, a researcher and Chairman, Pakistan Study Centre, University of Peshawar, said that the universe itself is an example of diversity. Peace is only possible when the individuals in a diverse society exhibit tolerance and acceptance for the ones different from them in terms of faith, culture, views etc. Diversity is quite natural and can be observed in the working of nature and universe. Monotony and sameness often does not appeal to our aesthetics. If we can enjoy a bouquet where a group of different flowers are fastened together, then we must enjoy and respect diversity in our society. We should also display appreciation of diversity in our homes; within our families to cultivate the seeds of change and tolerance. Our educational curriculum also needs to incorporate such subjects that could lead to peace and cohesion.
“The peaceful coexistence of the diverse communities is always conducive to social progress, economic boom and happy life”, said Mr. Rajinder Singh in the radio report aired as part of the show.
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.