As part of a provincial project focused on promoting social harmony and peacebuilding, Shahnawaz Chachar facilitated a three-day training workshop for 40 community religious leaders from eight districts across Sindh and Balochistan provinces in 2006. This important workshop, organized by the Takhleeq Foundation in Karachi, aimed to promote human rights awareness and raise awareness about the influence of socio-cultural norms on peace and conflict. The training covered fundamental human rights principles and values, explored the complexities of cultural diversity within Pakistani society, and examined the crucial role that religious leaders can play in promoting social harmony and peaceful coexistence. The workshop provided a platform for religious leaders to engage in open dialogue, share their perspectives, and develop strategies for promoting peace and human rights within their respective communities. This initiative recognized the significant influence that religious leaders hold within their communities and sought to empower them as advocates for positive social change.
Tag: Religious Leaders
Trained District Peace Committees in Upper Sindh.
During 2014 and 2015, Shahnawaz Chachar played a key role in designing, forming, and training district peace forums in Sukkur and Ghotki districts of Sindh province, Pakistan. These peace forums were established as part of the Marvi Rural Development Organization’s AWARE Project, funded by DAI (Development Alternatives, Inc.). The forums brought together diverse representatives from various segments of the community, including religious leaders from different faiths, prominent political figures, journalists, business leaders, women’s representatives, and tribal leaders. Shahnawaz designed and delivered training programs for these peace committees, focusing on conflict resolution, interfaith dialogue, peacebuilding strategies, and human rights awareness. The training aimed to equip committee members with the skills and knowledge to effectively address local conflicts, promote interfaith harmony, and advocate for the rights of all community members, particularly religious and other minorities. The peace forums were designed to serve as platforms for regular meetings, allowing members to discuss local issues, identify potential triggers of conflict, and take collective action to maintain peace and social cohesion at the district level.