The National Institute of Global Studies (NIGS) successfully organized a seminar titled "Religious Harmony in Bangladesh: The Path to Peace and Unity" on January 24, 2025, at the Bodhigyan Vidhorshon Bhavna Centre in Ashulia. This event underscored the significance of interfaith cooperation in fostering peace, unity, and social progress in Bangladesh.

The seminar aimed to promote policies and initiatives that encourage religious coexistence, strengthen interfaith dialogue, and build a robust foundation for societal harmony.

Chairman, NIGS and Trustee, Ministry of Religious Affairs, Dayal Kumar Barua, chair the event. Chief Guest, Venerable Ashin Jina Rakkhita Mahathero, Founder Director and Meditation Trainer, Bodhigyan Vidhorshon Bhavna Centre was present.

Distinguished Speakers: Advocate Dr. Govinda Chandra Pramanik, General Secretary, Bangladesh National Hindu Mahajot, Dr. Maimul Ahsan Khan, Former Chairman, Department of Law, University of Dhaka, Professor Dr. Sharif Shaki, Renowned Researcher, Sakhawat Khan, Former Country Director, United Nations, Kalyan Bishwa, Religious Leader of the Christian Community and President of A.G. Church, Dr. Ziauddin Ahmed, President, Sylhet Kidney Foundation and Hospital, Dr. Arif, Industrialist and Former Doctor of the Saudi National Guard, Colonel (Retd.) Abdus Salam (Bir Pratik).

The seminar focused on the historical role of religious tolerance in Bangladesh’s cultural fabric and its critical importance in national development. The speakers emphasized that religious harmony enhances Bangladesh’s global reputation and contributes to peace and stability.

Venerable Ashin Jina Rakkhita Mahathero remarked, “Religious harmony is a cornerstone for peace and development. It uplifts the nation’s dignity on the global stage.”

Sakhawat Khan highlighted the Bangladesh Army’s role in maintaining stability following the mass uprising on August 5, 2024, stating, “The Army’s efforts in averting civil unrest have been instrumental in ensuring national harmony, which is vital for our progress.”

The seminar concluded with policymakers and experts outlining actionable steps to enhance interfaith dialogue and collaboration.

NIGS Executive Director, AKM Sayedad Hossain, said, “Our commitment to fostering religious harmony will continue to enrich Bangladesh’s tradition of peaceful coexistence, setting a global example.”