Hindu-Buddhist Philosophy on Conflict Avoidance and Environment Consciousness - Samvad III-A Global Initiative

Due to interim greed and a desire for dominance, humanity is facing significant violence and environmental destruction, which threaten not only our lives and values but also the future of our planet. The current trend of environmental degradation, social unrest, and economic disparities presents a substantial risk to the planet’s future. Is there still hope for change, or is this path irreversible? Can we transform our ethics to adopt a universal vision for humanity? Can we overcome religious differences to establish a collective philosophy that benefits both us and our planet? If the principles and essence of Hinduism and Buddhism are any indication, the answer is affirmative. Drawing from the foundational principles of Hindu-Buddhist traditions, which are followed by over one-fifth of the global population and deeply embedded in the cultures of countries such as India and Japan, a non-conflict paradigm can effectively shift global discourse from reactive “conflict resolution” to proactive “conflict avoidance”. It can also move from divisive ideologies to inclusive and harmonious philosophies, emphasizing universal co-existence and mutual respect. It is with this aspiration and conviction that the VIF, New Delhi; Gandan Tegchenling Monastery, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia; and Institute of Strategic Studies of the National Security Council of Mongolia in association with the Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace (ABCP); International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) & The Japan Foundation, organised Samvad III— a Global Initiative on Conflict Avoidance and Environment Consciousness: A Dialogue for Peaceful co-existence, Inter-religious understanding and Interdependent sustainability at Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia in 2019. As new ideas beyond government action seem scarce, the conference aimed to promote a participatory approach to both conflict avoidance and environmental consciousness. This book, based on the conference proceedings, calls for global unity to address humanity’s most pressing challenges and attempts to answer a question: Can we offer a transformative vision for conflict avoidance and environmental sustainability through inter-religious dialogue, fostering tolerance, and reviving eco-conscious traditions? If we make our best effort, the outcome could be positive.

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