Episode 2 of 3: Bridging Divides: Contextualizing Conflict – Practising Religious Literacy for Peace.  Join us to explore how religious literacy can bridge divides and build peace—learn from Dicky Sofjan’s powerful insights on navigating conflict through contextual understanding

How can religious literacy be practised as a peacebuilding tool in contexts of conflict and division? In the second episode of our three-part series, Associate Professor Dr. Dicky Sofjan delves into how religious literacy, when approached contextually, can help bridge divides and foster social cohesion. Building on insights from the October 2024 webinar “Sowing Seeds of Peace,” Dicky shares real-world examples from his work across Asia, demonstrating how religious literacy can empower communities, transform engagement, and support inclusive conflict resolution. Join us for this 30-minute online fireside conversation, where Dicky will highlight the importance of training local actors, embracing multi-faith perspectives, and moving from mono-religious to inclusive approaches. The session offers a powerful lens on how understanding lived religion can strengthen efforts toward peace and resilience in diverse, often fragile, settings.How can religious literacy be practised as a peacebuilding tool in contexts of conflict and division? In the second episode of our three-part series, Associate Professor Dr. Dicky Sofjan delves into how religious literacy, when approached contextually, can help bridge divides and foster social cohesion. Building on insights from the October 2024 webinar “Sowing Seeds of Peace,” Dicky shares real-world examples from his work across Asia, demonstrating how religious literacy can empower communities, transform engagement, and support inclusive conflict resolution. Join us for this 30-minute online fireside conversation, where Dicky will highlight the importance of training local actors, embracing multi-faith perspectives, and moving from mono-religious to inclusive approaches. The session offers a powerful lens on how understanding lived religion can strengthen efforts toward peace and resilience in diverse, often fragile, settings.

Building on the October 2024 webinar “Sowing Seeds of Peace: The Role of IRD Organisations in Promoting Religious Literacy in Education as a Contribution to Peace”, this three-part follow-up series deepens the conversation by spotlighting religious literacy as a practical skillset for navigating complex societal challenges. Hosted in collaboration with the Tanenbaum Center for Interreligious Understanding, the series brings back three thought leaders from the original panel for focused 30-minute fireside discussions exploring how lived, contextual understandings of religion can shape diplomacy, transform conflict engagement, and foster inclusion in education.

Moderated by Dr Kate Soules, Executive Director of the Religion and Education Collaborative, each session offers actionable insights into how religious literacy builds empathy, critical thinking, and cross-cultural competence—skills essential for peaceful engagement in today’s world:

•    17 July with Professor Erin K Wilson (Diplomacy and Global Affairs) [info & registration]
•    21 July with Dicky Sofjan (Conflict & Interfaith Engagement) 
•    24 July with Daniel Del Nido (Education & Inclusion) [info & registration]