Initiative to give humanism a chance

New Delhi [India], Sept. 12 (ANI): In a world where violence expresses an extreme disrespect for human life, Soka Gakkai International's (SGI) Indian affiliate, Bharat Soka Gakkai (BSG), held a symposium in the national capital recently that seeks to put humanism centre stage. Entitled 'Universal Respect for Human Dignity: The Great Path to Peace', the symposium on September 9, was based on SGI President Daisaku Ikeda's 2016 peace proposal. The key focus of all President Ikeda's writings has been to examine how to bridge gaps between people across different cultures and nationalities in order to actualize a more peaceful world. He believes that the power of dialogue as well as the innate ability of humans to respond positively to difficult situations holds the key. To discuss the main points, the eminent speakers at the Symposium were Justice KG Balakrishnan, former chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission of India and former chief justice of India, HK Dua, former chief editor of Hindustan Times, The Indian Express and The Tribune and former member of the Rajya Sabha and Nitin Desai, former under-secretary general (Economic and Social Affairs), United Nations. Speaking of this initiative, Justice Balakrishnan said, "I am delighted that the Bharat Soka Gakkai has decided to hold a symposium focussing on peace at a time when the world over, there are problems relating to terrorism, the refugee crisis and alarming instances of environmental degradation. This is the right time for us to stop, think and address these problems and symposiums such as these will ensure that these matters get attention and action is taken." Focusing on the peace proposal, Vishesh Gupta, Chairperson of Bharat Soka Gakkai (BSG), raised an important point, "The preamble of the UNESCO chapter opens with the famous declaration, 'That since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defences of peace must be constructed'. How, then, are defences of peace that are truly lasting to be built?" "In the 2016 peace proposal which is the subject of today's discussion, President Ikeda has highlights that by conducting one on one dialogue, we can build strong and unassailable defences of peace in the heart of one individual after another," he continued. He added that it "compels us to think of some key aspects of human life and behaviour: First, whether we can empower another life. Second, all action should be based on dialogue. Third, to see the world from other person's perspective, and finally, to believe in the power and passion of youth." Futher quoting President Daisaku Ikeda, Gupta said, "More than anything, it is the depth and intensity of the commitment and pledge that lives in the hearts of the younger generation that will transform the world from one where global issues threaten the lives and dignity of people to one in which all people can live in peace and fully manifest their inherent dignity." (ANI)