Jahid Ikbal: On January 31, an online event titled “Inner Peace and Social & Religious Harmony in Buddhism, Bangladesh” was held with the participation of approximately 20 individuals, including Bangladeshi Buddhist religious leaders and members of HWPL.

Bangladesh is a country where approximately 90% of the population practices Islam, and freedom of religion is constitutionally guaranteed. Nevertheless, incidents of violence and discrimination against minority religious communities have been reported intermittently

Buddhist communities, particularly among indigenous ethnic groups, have played an important role in preserving local culture and identity. In this context, the need for continued dialogue and mutual understanding among religions has been increasingly emphasized. The event was organized to provide a platform for learning and dialogue that views other religions not as adversaries, but as subjects of understanding, grounded in Buddhism’s principles of compassion and non-violence.

The event began with an introduction to HWPL, followed by presentations from five speakers. The first presentation was delivered by Venerable Karunananda Thera, Chief Abbot of the Gazipur Universal Buddhist Monastery.

Venerable Karunananda Thera explained the concept of true peace according to Buddhist scriptures, stating,“Peace in Buddhism does not begin with changing the world, but with liberating the mind by letting go of greed and anger.”

Venerable Jewel Rana Barua, who participated in the International Religious Peace Academy (IRPA), shared his personal experience and emphasized that interreligious dialogue does not weaken one’s faith, but rather deepens understanding.

The International Religious Peace Academy (IRPA) is a program of HWPL designed to help religious leaders understand different religions through open dialogue. It aims to foster a culture of mutual respect and contribute to the reduction of interreligious conflict.

Bhutan Barua, a Bangladeshi university student, and Ashoke Barua, a civil society leader who participated in the event, expressed their commitment to continue engaging in citizen-participatory peace activities beyond religious boundaries, based on Buddhism’s principles of peace.