G20 Interfaith Summit

Introduction

The G20 Interfaith Summit at the World Peace Dome in Pune stands as a testament to the power of unity and collaboration in the face of adversity. By bringing together religious leaders, experts, and practitioners the summit promises to spark innovative solutions to interconnected global challenges. Through its emphasis on vulnerable communities, it seeks to empower those most affected and, in doing so, cultivate a sense of hope and optimism for a better future. As the world grapples with complex issues, the G20 Interfaith Summit serves as a powerful reminder that by working together across faiths and backgrounds, humanity can forge a path toward lasting peace and holistic development.

Students/Fellows' Experiences

Sophia Gunter:

Attending the G20 Interfaith Summit in India was a transformative experience. Immersed in dialogue and collaboration, I found the conference a profound exploration of the intersection between science and spirituality. Engaging with fellow attendees, including students from MIT-WPU, provided candid insights into India's diverse cultural landscape and global dynamics.

Reconnecting with esteemed figures like King Hussein, Cole Durham, and Brian Grim, as well as forging new connections with individuals like Kimberlie Orr and Tauna-Lyn Ford, opened avenues for collaboration and mentorship. Additionally, discussions with Rachel Miner of Bellwether International reaffirmed my commitment to anti-genocide efforts in Armenia.

Overall, the summit deepened my understanding of global issues and equipped me with the tools and connections to effect positive change. I am grateful to BYU-Hawaii and conference sponsors for this enriching opportunity and look forward to continuing my journey as a global citizen with newfound purpose.

Aaron James:

Attending the G20 Interfaith Summit in India was a transformative experience, filled with enriching encounters and thought-provoking discussions. Engaging with diverse individuals, including political leader Nirav Ghaadiya and expert Dr. Vijay G. Prabhakar, provided valuable insights into local politics and global cooperation. Particularly impactful was my dialogue with social entrepreneur Adhik Kadam, whose dedication to peacebuilding amidst conflict zones left a lasting impression on me.

Participating in the Youth Dialogue session allowed me to delve into the role of religion, ethics, and technology in fostering global peace. Drawing from various religious traditions and ethical principles, I emphasized the importance of unity amidst diversity and the responsible use of technology for societal betterment. This experience reinforced my commitment to promoting understanding and harmony in our interconnected world.

As I return to Brigham Young University–Hawaii, I carry with me a renewed sense of purpose to advocate for peace and mutual respect. Inspired by the lessons learned and connections made at the summit, I am committed to continuing my journey as an ambassador for positive change in our global community.

Prashanth Ramishetty:

The invitation to the G20 Interfaith Forum in Pune, India, sparked excitement within me, offering a chance to return to my roots near Hyderabad. Selected by the RFHD Initiative Advisory Board, our group from Brigham Young University–Hawaii, including myself and two fellow students alongside a professor, embarked on this global dialogue journey. The prospect of engaging in discussions at the renowned World Peace Dome, housing significant statues including one of Joseph Smith Jr., added to the anticipation, especially after meeting Elder D. Todd Christofferson months prior.

Upon arrival in India, the warmth of camaraderie among us and the hospitality of liaison officers set a positive tone. The grandeur of the World Peace Dome surpassed expectations, intensifying my excitement for the forum discussions ahead. The blend of personal connections, symbolic venue significance, and impending global dialogues evoked a mix of emotions—excitement, curiosity, and a deep sense of privilege, shaping what promised to be a memorable experience.

The arrangements at the forum were impeccable, from seamless transportation to well-organized registration processes. The hospitality extended to attendees was evident in the comfortable accommodations and thoughtfully arranged meeting spaces, fostering meaningful engagement. The forum itself was a gathering of intellectual prowess, featuring remarkable speakers and exceptional students from our university, contributing to vibrant discussions on pressing global issues. Despite some room for improvement in structuring youth dialogue sessions, the overall experience empowered the next generation of leaders and underscored our shared responsibility in addressing global challenges.

Summary Reports

Day 1:

The opening day of the G20 Interfaith Summit saw prominent figures from various sectors delivering insightful remarks. D. Todd Christofferson from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints emphasized the importance of religious harmony, showcasing the Church's commitment to interfaith dialogue. Rahul V. Karad, representing MAEER’s MIT, Pune, highlighted the significance of dialogue in fostering peace and coexistence, particularly within India's diverse religious landscape. Vishwanath Karad, the visionary behind initiatives like the World Peace Dome, emphasized Swami Vivekananda's teachings in promoting religious freedom and peace through education.

The indoor session featured distinguished speakers like Gautam Bapat, who emphasized Hindu scriptures promoting religious harmony, and W. Cole Durham, Jr., who discussed the Interfaith Forum's role in informing global policies. King Husein shared personal experiences on religious freedom, while government officials like Vikram Kumar and Rajesh Deshmukh stressed the partnership between religion and governance in crisis management. Vishwanath D. Karad extended a warm welcome to attendees, acknowledging the pivotal role of religious leaders in furthering dialogue and cooperation.

Representatives from various faiths, including Jainism, Judaism, Zoroastrianism, Islam, and Buddhism, offered blessings, scriptures, and prayers, emphasizing the universal values of peace and harmony. Their contributions highlighted the diverse religious fabric and shared commitment to promoting understanding and cooperation.

Day 2:

Day 2 of the G20 Interfaith Summit delved into a wide range of pressing issues, starting with the Opening Plenary that highlighted Catholicism's role in promoting peace in India, the dangers of religious domination, and the vital contributions of women to interfaith dialogue. The session emphasized the importance of meaningful dialogue across faiths to foster understanding and harmony. In the breakout session on "Religion, Ethics & Technology," speakers examined the ethical challenges posed by technological advancements, particularly amid the COVID-19 pandemic. They advocated for a values-based approach to tech development and emphasized the role of faith leaders in guiding technological innovation towards ethical considerations.

Throughout the day, panel discussions explored various facets of promoting peace and understanding, including the role of businesses, women's empowerment, and strategies for fostering social cohesion. Panelists showcased case studies on diversity and inclusion in business initiatives, highlighted the pivotal role of women in conflict resolution, and discussed the significance of religious freedom in achieving social harmony. Furthermore, the session on vulnerable communities underscored the critical role of religious and interreligious communities in advocating for marginalized groups, particularly in times of humanitarian crises like the ongoing pandemic. Speakers called for more inclusive policies and concrete steps to combat stigmatization and promote inclusion, with a focus on empowering women and addressing root causes of inequality.

The day also saw discussions on India's National Education Policy, emphasizing the importance of holistic education and the preservation of cultural diversity through regional languages. Key points included the need for effective policy implementation backed by societal acceptance and mindset change. Overall, the day's sessions underscored the importance of unity, education, and cultural change in building an inclusive and empowered society committed to leaving no one behind in the pursuit of peace and understanding.

Day 3:

The panel discussion titled "The 4 C’s: COVID, Climate, Conflicts, Children" featured speakers emphasizing the importance of learning from tradition and utilizing management and technology to address contemporary challenges, with a focus on promoting human rights and social justice. The session highlighted the interconnectedness of global issues and the value of real-life examples in understanding and addressing them. Additionally, discussions centered on the role of education, particularly in ensuring inclusivity and promoting societal progress, with an emphasis on the need for holistic development and the involvement of faith-inspired organizations in fostering empathy and inclusivity. Overall, the speakers underscored the urgency of addressing global challenges and the importance of collaboration and dialogue in creating a more just and compassionate world for vulnerable children.

The discussion titled "Health Care" provided a platform for discussions on the intersection of health, religion, and development, emphasizing the need to prepare healthcare systems for future pandemics while addressing existing inequities. Speakers highlighted the role of religious leaders in shaping the future of the religion-health nexus, advocating for better integration of religious health assets with pandemic preparedness and restructuring healthcare systems with active engagement of religious voices. The focus was on fostering a more balanced and ethical approach to healthcare to achieve deeper connections and improved outcomes for society, with a commitment to building stronger, equitable, and ethical healthcare systems aligned with broader goals of ensuring a healthier and more inclusive future for all. Additionally, discussions in other sessions, such as "Protecting Children and the Vulnerable" and "Climate," explored the roles of faith communities in safeguarding vulnerable populations and addressing climate-related challenges, showcasing initiatives aimed at promoting peace, sustainability, and social justice.