Muslim Contributions to Interreligious Peacebuilding and Reconciliation in Sri Lanka: History, Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

This study explores the vital role of Sri Lankan Muslims in interreligious peacebuilding within the country's diverse post-conflict social landscape, emphasising their important contributions to fostering reconciliation and harmony among religious communities. Sri Lankan Muslims have actively promoted interreligious dialogue initiatives, leveraging Islamic principles emphasising peace, justice, and coexistence. This paper aims to showcase key initiatives led by Islamic organisations, including grassroots peacebuilding efforts in ethnically mixed communities and collaborative projects focused on social justice and community development. This study uses historical, descriptive, and analytical methods. The findings reveal that these Muslim-led initiatives have significantly enhanced mutual understanding and respect among various religious groups, contributing to broader societal stability and harmony. Additionally, it highlights the exceptional contributions and difficulties that Muslims in Sri Lanka have encountered in interreligious discourse, offering insightful insights into other multireligious environments worldwide. By providing insights into these efforts, the research contributes to the broader discourse on interreligious peacebuilding, highlighting the potential of Muslim engagement in creating a more peaceful and integrated society. The findings advocate for increased recognition and support of Muslim contributions to interreligious peacebuilding as a vital component of national reconciliation and unity.