Impediments to Interfaith Dialogue as A Peacebuilding Strategy: Perspective from Religious Leaders in Pakistan

Abstract

This study is characterized with the objective to discover perspective of religious leaders regarding hurdles in peace building through interfaith dialogue in Pakistan. For this purpose, qualitative research method was employed. Twenty-five religious leaders, belonging to Muslim, Christian, Hindu and Sikh communities were interviewed. Sample was drawn through purposive sampling method at first stage and convenient sampling technique at second stage. Data was gathered through in-depth interviews after seeking consent. Interviews were recorded on audio device with the permission of participants. Later on all interviews were transcribed and thematic analysis was carried out. It was found from the results that fear of conversion and loss of religious identity stand as a major hurdle in the way to successful dialogue on grassroots level. Lack of knowledge about one’s own religion is also one of the impediments to successful dialogue. It was further found that misconceptions and incorrect information about other religions is also a hurdle in the smooth occurrence of interreligious dialogue. Maltreatment and ethnic cleansing of Muslims in different parts of the world (Kashmir, Palestine, Burma) and frequent incidents of shameful acts like burning the copies of Holy Quran and making cartoons of Holy Prophet leave no possibility for dialogue activity at local level. The findings of the study suggest that widespread consciousness regarding concept and implications of interfaith dialogue is required among masses. Government of Pakistan should do robust lobbying on international level to restrain harassment of Muslims as well as harmful trends of scandalous acts of burning copies of holy Quran and heretical remarks on the holy Prophet (PBUH). Drama serials, movies and cartoons for the children based on interfaith stories with the purpose to sensitize the masses should be produced and promoted by mainstream electronic media.