August 8, 2025
Sundar Singh Institute of South Asian Studies, Prayagraj, India

Earlier this month, the Sundar Singh Institute hosted a three-day grassroots workshop aimed at equipping faith leaders from across South Asia with the skills and strategies needed to counter hate speech and foster community cohesion. The event drew participants from Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Sikh, and Buddhist communities in India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

Facilitated by the Institute’s Interfaith Engagement Unit, the workshop provided practical training in conflict-sensitive communication, social media literacy, and legal frameworks related to hate speech regulation. Sessions also included role-playing exercises to simulate real-world scenarios, enabling leaders to practice de-escalation and dialogue techniques in tense situations.

Dr. Isaac S. Sato, delivering the keynote address, underscored the moral responsibility of faith leaders to protect vulnerable communities from targeted discrimination. He emphasized that silence in the face of inflammatory rhetoric can contribute to cycles of violence and mistrust.

Participants collaborated to produce a “Community Charter for Respectful Dialogue,” committing to regular interfaith forums, joint public statements against hate speech, and coordinated outreach in times of crisis. The charter will be formally launched at the Institute’s January 2026 conference on interfaith dialogue and peacebuilding.

Feedback from attendees indicated that the workshop not only enhanced practical skills but also deepened trust among leaders of diverse traditions, laying the groundwork for future collaboration in promoting peace and social harmony across the region.