Recent events in Iraq and Syria underscore the devastating impact of violent extremism. In fact, it is one of the most pressing issues facing the world today, affecting many regions and threatening to destabilize the global community. Efforts to counter violent extremism require strategic and sensitive approaches that take into account its myriad drivers and encourage collaboration across many sectors. While civil society has an important role to play in countering violent extremism, religious actors are particularly well positioned to address some of its root causes, particularly in areas in which extremism is couched in religious terms.
At the end of September 2014, the Network of Religious and Traditional Peacemakers, Finn Church Aid, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland, and the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) will host the “Religious Actors Combatting Radicalization and Violent Extremism Symposium,” in Washington, DC and New York City. This symposium is bringing together nearly two dozen selected religious leaders, scholars and actors from around the world, including Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Syria and Libya who have been very involved in combatting violent extremism in their own communities.
On September 26th, 2014, USIP will host a public event “Is There a Role for Religious Actors in Countering Radicalization and Violent Extremism? Voices from the Trenches,” featuring three panelists from the Symposium, who will present key insights drawn from the workshop and their own experiences.
Speakers include:
- H.E. Sheikh Abdallah Bin Bayyah
President, Promoting Peace in Muslim Societies, United Arab Emirates - Pastor Esther Ibanga
President, Women Without Walls Initiative, Nigeria
Founder & Pastor, Jos Christian Missions International - Vinya Ariyaratne
General Secretary, Sarvodaya, Sri Lanka - Georgia Holmer, Moderator
Deputy Director, Rule of Law Center
Please visit the event website for more details.