The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights’ report on “Combating intolerance, negative stereotyping and stigmatization of, and discrimination, incitement to violence and violence against, persons based on religion or belief” (18 January 2024) made a welcome reference to the positive contributions made by Dharma traditions in encouraging mutual respect, acceptance, and peacebuilding. Paragraph 32 of the report acknowledges Dharma Alliance’s contribution to this process.
“In September 2023, the Dharma Alliance, the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations and the University for Peace jointly organized a panel discussion on the theme “Peacebuilding, the Sustainable Development Goals and Dharma cultures: applying ancient wisdoms to modern challenges”, held at the United Nations Office at Geneva. Panellists introduced and highlighted the core principles of Dharmic traditions, primarily Buddhist, Hindu, Jain and Sikh traditions, which encouraged global ownership of and adherence to the Sustainable Development Goals. Panellists included academics, members of civil society, politicians, religious leaders and speakers from OHCHR, the Alliance of Civilizations, UNESCO and the University for Peace.”
Video recording of the panel discussion referred to in the report is available here.
Published: Select Date January