NILI – Building a culture of tolerance and no-violence strengthens communities, said participants at a UN-backed event in the central province of Daikundi.

Religious scholars - including women - representing different religious institutions in Daikundi province came together to discuss how they can engage better with their communities to nurture social harmony.

Asadullah Erfani, head of Religious Affairs Department in Daikundi said that the clerics have been long involved in resolution and mediation of local conflicts. “In the action to promote tolerance and prevent community conflicts, our local scholars from different institutions work together,” added Erfani.

Another participant, Ali Mohammad Ahamdi, head of the religious scholars council in Daikundi attributed the relatively calm environment in the province to the active involvement of religious figures in resolving disputes and participation in local peace processes.

“Ulema in Daikundi are in touch with the clerics from insecure communities in neighboring provinces to support them, exchange ideas on peaceful solutions and prevent instability in the region,” Ahmadi explained.

For Roshan Mosavi, a female religious scholar, inclusion and diversity are crucial to building social cohesion. She underscored the importance of everyone’s participation especially women and young people without whose involvement, she argued, neither development nor peace is entirely achievable.

At the conclusion of the engaging discussions, the participants jointly resolved to use Islamic forums to promote peaceful cohabitation.

Organized by UNAMA regional office in Bamyan, the event was broadcast by local media partners Radio Daikundi and Radio Aftab to an estimated audience of 120,000 in Daikundi and nearby districts.

In accordance with its mandate as a political mission, UNAMA supports the Afghan people and government to achieve peace and stability. UNAMA backs conflict prevention and resolution, promoting inclusion and social cohesion, as well as strengthening regional cooperation. The Mission supports effective governance, promoting national ownership and accountable institutions that are built on respect for human rights.

UNAMA provides 'good offices' and other key services, including diplomatic steps that draw on the organization’s independence, impartiality and integrity to prevent disputes from arising, escalating or spreading. The Mission coordinates international support for Afghan development and humanitarian priorities.