Resolution at the International Buddhist Forum Focuses on Reducing Violence Worldwide
A recent international Buddhist forum, titled “Traditional Buddhism and the Challenges of Modernity,” concluded with a firm resolution. The gathering underscored the Buddhist community’s commitment to diminishing all forms of violence across the globe. The declaration was reported by socialbites.ca, highlighting the forum’s emphasis on using religious and spiritual guidance for peace rather than as a catalyst for division or harm.
The participants stated that religious and spiritual teachings should not be wielded as instruments of political conflict or as a means to provoke hatred or moral injury. They affirmed that the Buddhist community does not grant any group the right to speak for all Buddhists, and the forum’s final decision centers on reducing violence in all its manifestations worldwide.
Another key outcome was agreement that Buddhist organizations ought to take an active role in government and public programs. These initiatives would aim to strengthen civic identity and social responsibility, aligning spiritual values with constructive public service.
According to the resolution authors, Buddhist wisdom, when integrated with daily practice, supports the elimination of contradictions and conflicts. It is described as a resource for healing after psychological and emotional trauma and for fostering inner harmony of mind and body.
Among the forum’s concrete recommendations were steps to enhance Buddhist education, advance research into the medical and health traditions embedded in Buddhism, promote the translation and digitization of Buddhist texts, and influence the cultivation of environmental awareness in human communities. These moves are seen as ways to broaden understanding of Buddhist contributions to personal well-being and societal resilience.
The forum took place in Ulan-Ude from August 17 to 19, initiated by the President of the Republic of Buryatia, Alexei Tsydenov. Scholars of Buddhism, orientalists, representatives from diplomatic and public institutions, and adherents from Buddhist communities across South and Southeast Asia, Mongolia, China, and other parts of Russia gathered to discuss how traditional Buddhist practices can meet contemporary challenges. The gathering reflects the long-standing presence of Buddhism in Russia and its evolving role in regional cultural and social life. This meeting also marks a milestone with the signing of an agreement to establish a Buddhist Education consortium, signaling fresh collaboration in education and scholarly work among Buddhist institutions. [Socialbites.ca] The initiative aims to create a structured network that can support ongoing education, research, and outreach across Buddhist communities in the region.