Bangladesh: International multifaith dialogue workshop promotes harmony at Dhaka University

The International Workshop on Multifaith Dialogue (IWOMD 2025) was held at the Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban Auditorium of Dhaka University from February 10 to 11.

The program aimed to promote an inclusive society and foster religious harmony.

The two-day event brought together religious scholars, community leaders, and academics from around the world to engage in meaningful discussions on interfaith collaboration and peaceful coexistence.

Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan, Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University, inaugurated the workshop as the chief guest. 

In his opening speech, Khan emphasized the importance of religious unity during the country’s ongoing transitional period.

“We must work together, regardless of religion or caste, to strengthen mutual unity and eliminate social divisions,” he stated.

He also referred to the July uprising as a significant moment in Bangladesh’s history, underscoring the need to address social inequalities for a better future.

The event saw participation from distinguished figures in interfaith dialogue, including Dr. Bob Roberts Jr., co-founder of the Multifaith Neighbors Network (MFNN); Imam Mohammad Majid, chairman of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA); Nadine Mayenza, president of the International Religious Freedom (IRF); James Chen, senior vice president of the Institute of Global Engagement; and Syed Muktadir, senior advisor of Global Muslim Affairs.

Prominent religious leaders representing different faith communities also delivered speeches. Among them were eminent nuclear scientist Professor Dr. M. Shamsher Ali for Islam, Dr. Sukomal Barua from the Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies for Buddhism, Shreemot Swami Ambeshananda from the Ramakrishna Mission for Hinduism, and Archbishop Bejoy N. D. Cruze of the Bangladesh Catholic Church for Christianity. Their talks focused on mutual respect, peaceful cohabitation, and the role of religion in social harmony.

The workshop was presided over by Professor Dr. Mohammad Elias, convener of the organizing committee and director of the Center for Inter-religious and Intercultural Dialogue (CIID).

The welcome address was delivered by Professor Dr. M. Abdul Aziz, director general of the Bangladesh Institute of Islamic Thought (BIIT) and co-convenor of the event.

Other notable attendees included Professor Dr. Md. Abu Sayem, Chairman of Dhaka University’s Department of World Religions and Culture, university faculty members, researchers, students, and representatives from various religious and cultural organizations.

Throughout the workshop, speakers underscored Bangladesh’s historical legacy of religious harmony, where people of different faiths coexist peacefully. They stressed that a true believer respects all religions and that constructive dialogue is crucial for sustaining interfaith unity.  

The discussions highlighted the responsibility of religious leaders to establish a stable and compassionate society through collaboration and mutual understanding.

The event also sought to engage local communities in interfaith initiatives, reinforcing Bangladesh’s tradition of religious coexistence.

Organizers emphasized the need for strategic projects aimed at fostering trust and cooperation among different religious communities, ultimately contributing to a peaceful and prosperous future.

Dr. A.F.M. Khalid Hossain, honorable adviser to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, attended the closing ceremony as the chief guest. Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) of Dhaka University, was a special guest.

As the workshop ended, participants expressed optimism about the future of multifaith dialogue in Bangladesh. They reaffirmed their commitment to fostering peace, unity, and interfaith collaboration in an increasingly interconnected world. 

The success of IWOMD 2025 is expected to pave the way for further initiatives aimed at strengthening religious harmony and inclusivity in Bangladesh and beyond.