In a world fraught with complex challenges and interconnected crises, the G20 Interfaith Summit held in 2023 emerged as a beacon of hope and unity. Themed “Shaping World Peace and Sustainable Development through Interfaith Harmony,” this monumental event took place from September 5th to 7th at the awe-inspiring Philosopher Saint Shri Dnyaneshwara World Peace Dome in Pune, India. The summit’s agenda and discussions revolved around addressing pressing global issues while emphasizing interfaith collaboration and compassion.
Call to Action
The summit resonated with the overarching theme of the 2023 G20 summit, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which translates to “One Earth, One Family, One Future.” This theme encapsulated the intricate challenges and shared aspirations that world leaders faced when they gathered in New Delhi for the September summit. These challenges included economic perils, conflicts, mass migrations, climate change, health crises, political tensions, and social disparities.
In response, the G20 Interfaith Forum emphasized two fundamental principles:
Focus on Vulnerability: The summit called for prioritizing the needs of the most vulnerable individuals and communities worldwide. It highlighted the importance of considering the impact of every action on children, aligning with the values shared across diverse religious traditions.
Interconnected Agendas: Specific proposals for action were drawn from discussions in New Delhi, Abu Dhabi, and various global regions. Four broad agendas emerged:
a. Addressing Health Crises: The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the urgent need for a common framework to address health system weaknesses, inequalities, and preparedness for future pandemics. Religious communities were recognized as vital assets in this endeavor.
b. Promoting Peace: Contemporary conflicts have multifaceted causes, with religious factors playing a role. The summit advocated for the involvement of interreligious and religious actors in peacebuilding efforts.
c. Tackling Forced Migration: With over 110 million forced migrants globally, this crisis requires comprehensive solutions. Faith communities were seen as integral to both understanding the root causes and seeking solutions.
d. Addressing the Climate Crisis: The summit emphasized the need for extraordinary leadership and mobilization to combat climate change. Faith communities were recognized as key players in this global challenge.
Overarching Concerns
Building upon the “four Cs” agenda (COVID-19, Climate, Conflict, and Children), three overarching concerns emerged:
International Financial Architecture: The summit stressed the urgency of addressing country indebtedness and enhancing the capacity of multilateral institutions to support Sustainable Development Goal agendas and humanitarian needs.
Inequality and Racism: Attention to the poorest nations and a proposal to include the African Union as a G20 member were advocated. The summit urged the serious consideration of a Commission to address racism.
Paths to Action
The G20 Interfaith Forum in 2023 focused on specific areas for action:
a. Children: Urgent gaps in political approaches to children’s welfare, especially those in vulnerable situations, were highlighted. Mental health and digital challenges affecting children were areas of special concern.
b. Climate: Given the pressing environmental challenges, G20 leaders were urged to take bold action on climate finance and energy transitions. The Interfaith Rainforest Initiative was cited as an inspiring example of cross-sector engagement.
c. Conflict and Forced Migration: Religious communities were acknowledged as primary actors in addressing conflicts and their disruptive effects. Active involvement of G20 countries in peace-seeking efforts was encouraged.
d. Health and Preparedness: Engaging religious communities in reflections on lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic was deemed crucial. Health systems’ equity and preparedness for future pandemics were high-priority areas.
e. Education: The disruption of formal education by the pandemic necessitated urgent measures to address growing disparities among communities and gaps in civic education. The summit called for active dialogue about the needs of youth and children in planning inclusive education.
The G20 Interfaith Summit 2023 served as a testament to the power of faith, unity, and compassion in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges. It united individuals and organizations from diverse backgrounds in their quest for a more harmonious and sustainable world. The summit’s discussions, proposals, and declarations provide a roadmap for global leaders and communities to work together toward a brighter, more inclusive future.
Embodying the theme of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (One Earth, One Family, One Future), the summit illustrated the potential for collaboration across faiths and cultures to promote global peace and sustainable development.
The G20 Interfaith Summit 2023 in Pune, India, brought together diverse minds and hearts under the theme of “Shaping World Peace and Sustainable Development through Interfaith Harmony.” This transformative event united individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, and faiths.
A Shared Mission:
I and Ms. Shruti Nagvanshi, distinguished speakers, shared their insights on child protection and vulnerable children, emphasizing the urgency of this global issue.
Reunion and Reflection:
The summit was more than discourse; it was a personal reunion for myself and Ms. Shruti, reigniting their shared passion for social change. Engaging in profound discussions, they explored innovative solutions to the challenges faced by vulnerable children, inspiring all with their shared purpose.
Extraordinary Hospitality:
Their four nights at the Blue Diamond Hotel were exceptional, with a serendipitous connection—the hotel was built in my birth year, 1970. This coincidence added significance to their stay, highlighting the alignment of their life paths.
The Power of Collaboration and Education:
The G20 Interfaith Summit showcased the potential of collaboration and education to promote peace and understanding. It emphasized the importance of diverse voices coming together for a harmonious, compassionate, and sustainable world.
Honoring a Visionary Leader:
During the summit, statues were unveiled to honor Rev. Prof. Dr. Vishwanath D. Karad, a visionary in technical education. His contributions, including the World Peace Dome and UNESCO CHAIR, were celebrated. I call for the Bharata Ratna award for Dr. Karad acknowledged the impact of visionary leaders.
Serendipity and Recognition:
An unexpected flight cancellation led to a meeting with W. Cole Durham, Jr., President of the G20 Interfaith Forum Association, who recognized Ms. Shruti. This recognition symbolized their transformative journey in promoting universal values and pluralistic democracy.
The G20 Interfaith Summit 2023 was more than a conference; it embodied shared values and aspirations, inspiring individuals dedicated to making the world a better place.