In a time of growing polarization, conflict, and social division, how can dialogue help build understanding and peace?
Join us for a special conversation with Venerable Dr. Lablu Barua, a Buddhist monk, peacebuilder, and advocate of interreligious dialogue from Bangladesh and Thailand. Drawing on decades of experience in peace education, reconciliation, and international cooperation, he will share insights on the role of dialogue and non-violence in addressing today’s social challenges.
Together, we will explore:
?️ Intercultural dialogue in times of polarization
☸️ Buddhism, non-violence, and peacebuilding
? The role of civil society in countering hate and division
? Why dialogue still matters in today’s world
? Interactive discussion and Q&A session
We had the privilege of hosting a session with Venerable Dr. Lablu Barua on the topic:
„Building Peace in Times of Polarization: A Conversation on Peace, Non-Violence, and the Future of Coexistence.” ?️
At the heart of peace are two dimensions — the inner and the outer. Inner peace begins with understanding ourselves: cutting the ego, letting go of greed, hatred, and delusion (loba, dosa, moha in Buddhism). Outer peace follows when we stop projecting our inner conflicts onto the world around us.
The Buddha teaches: hatred is never met with hatred. Instead — empathy, deep listening, compassion, and kindness become the tools of coexistence.
Peace isn’t passive. It asks us to be present, to keep silence when needed, to practice the middle way — finding that place where we are truly satisfied within ourselves. Justice matters in dialogue. So does non-violence, not just in action, but in intention.
We cannot live individually. True peace honors individual peace, self-dignity, and respect — for ourselves and for others.
How do you cultivate inner peace in your daily life? ?
Organized by:
Dunaj Instytut Dialogu
NEVER AGAIN Association
Minorities for Peace
