Promoting Interreligious Peace: Reflections on the Research Workshop in Lomé, September 2023

During the days of September 25 to 26, 2023, the city of Lomé played host to a captivating research workshop under the theme "Religion for Peace? Identifying the Conditions and Mechanisms for Interreligious Peace." This event was meticulously organized through a fruitful collaboration between the GIGA and CROP organizations.

In a context where religious tensions continue to create divisions and conflicts in various parts of the world, this workshop aimed to find concrete solutions to promote peaceful coexistence among different religious faiths. The clear objectives of the workshop were to facilitate the sharing of experiences and effective mechanisms used in various countries, as well as to explore innovative approaches to resolve interreligious conflicts.

The workshop was marked by in-depth discussions on the necessary conditions for the peaceful coexistence of different religious beliefs. Participants shared poignant examples of successful local projects and discussed how these initiatives could be adapted and applied in different contexts.

Among the highlights of the workshop were the exchange of ideas on involving younger generations in promoting interreligious peace, as well as discussions on the importance of interfaith dialogue in building a tolerant and inclusive society.

As we reflect on these enriching two days, we are filled with a sense of optimism. The future prospects are promising, with plans underway to expand these discussions to a wider audience. Participants agreed to collaborate on awareness projects in their respective communities and work together to establish a regional network dedicated to promoting interreligious peace.