On 16 November 2024, the SAWAB organized a development dialogue under its Peace Building and Social Cohesion Program the “Role of CSOs in Building Peace and Justice” at the Meeting Room of SAWAB, Lalmatia, Dhaka. The objective of the discussion was to open an identify issues and challenges of civil society organizations (CSOs) and their role in building peace and justice in society. We had an insightful session with Mr. Sader Mohhamad Asduzzaman, Assistant Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh was the focal speaker of the event. Mr. Moniruzzaman Mukul was the presenter on the topic. Mr. S M Rasheduzzaman, honorable Chairman of SAWAB, presided over the session and Mr. Mohammad Aftabuzzamaan, CEO of SAWAB Foundation, was the moderator of the dialogue.
Executives of CSO organizations APON Foundation, BNPS, LEEDO, SOHOY, Film4 Peace, Hashimukh, Mojar School, VIDA, Neer Seba Sangstha, SCAN- Bangladesh were present in the dialogue and took part in the discussion session.
Major findings of the dialogue
- The government is the main stakeholder and is responsible for upholding the issue for all and ensuring peace and justice in the country.
- Peace-building initiatives should be commenced at the primary education level as well from the family.
- Justice is a precondition to ensuring peace.
- This work should be not only at the national level but also more important in the community level.
- Good governance is a must in every sphere of life to promote peace and justice.
- Have to deal with both positive peace and negative peace.
- Peace and justice are very popular words but so hard to establish.
- Have to work with structural and non-structural frameworks.
- In a comprehensive sense nature, climate, and Indigenous are vital for peace-building.
- Religion is always in favor of building a peaceful society.
- GO and NGO collaboration is crucial for the good results of any program.
- Coordination among the ministries is vital for the maximum results.
- Strong network building among NGOs is also an important element in achieving the goals.
- SAWAB can take the lead in mapping good practices in this sector and make a model project for others.
- More advocacy is needed in this field yet.
