Interfaith Dialogue for Human Dignity and Justice
Project Description
We extend our sincere appreciation to the distinguished panelists and moderator whose insights deeply enriched the Dignity Conference in Sri Lanka. A special thanks to Shkak Kareem Ahmed, Project Associate at the International Youth Council Headquarters (IYCHQ), for moderating the panel with both depth and empathy. We are especially grateful to the panelists for sharing their valuable perspectives on faith, human dignity, gender-based violence, and Indigenous rights:
Rev. Asiri P. Perera
Retired President Bishop, Methodist Church Sri Lanka
Sheikh Umair Yoosuf Board Secretary – Zamzam Foundation Founder & Head of Strategy – Menta Media & Synch Labs
Professor Ranjith Bandara Emeritus Professor of Economics, University of Colombo Chairman, Kirula Foundation
Darshaka Sharma Kurukkal Chief Hindu Priest, Consultant on Religious Affairs – Universal Human Rights Organisation Sri Lanka Chief Priest – All Ceylon Hindu Congress
Your contributions helped foster a meaningful space for dialogue, learning, and collective reflection.
Thank you for your commitment to advancing dignity and justice for all.
Duration
Start date : 8.07.2025
Completed Date : 10.07.2025
Location(s)
Colombo, Sri Lanka
IYC Focal Area(s)
Improving Physical, Mental and Social Well-being
Leadership of the Project
IYC Headquarters
Strategic Partnerships
International Centre for Ethnic Studies (ICES) Colombo.
SDG Number
5,10,16
Strategic Goals:
Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere.
End abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against and torture of children.
Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements.
Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.
Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels .
Fast Facts:
Challenges
Promoting the rule of law and equal access to justice at national and international levels.
Addressing complex issues of faith, human dignity, gender-based violence, and Indigenous rights.
Solutions
Moderated panel discussions fostered cross-faith and interdisciplinary exchanges on these challenges.
Emphasis on promoting inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making processes.
Benefits and Impact
Raised awareness on ending abuse, trafficking, and violence against children.
Enhanced understanding of human dignity issues among stakeholders across faiths and sectors.
Created a meaningful space for continuous dialogue toward inclusive, tolerant, and peaceful societies.
