Conflict Resolution and Peace Building Exploring Perspectives of Different Faith Communities of Khyber Pakhtūnkhwa
Abstract
Khyber Pakhtūnkhwa is passing through sever crises where minorities are more prone to be under target. Islᾱm gives the message of peace, harmony, respect of all human beings. However, Islᾱm has been portrayed to be the reason of conflict and atrocities and Pashtuns are popularized to be extremists and terrorists. In this context, the present study is conducted to explore perspectives of different faith communities regarding conflict resolution and peace building in Khyber Pakhtūnkhwa. The study uses quantitative method of research and questionnaire with close and open ended questions for data collection. The study is longitudinal in nature and data is collected from 180 members in five districts of Khyber Pakhtūnkhwa in three different periods. It has been observed that respondents are considering women and youth role very vital in inter-faith activities, conflict resolution and peace building. The perception regarding media role has been improved during three successive surveys while at the same time media role is subjected to certain limitations i.e., media is required to promote harmony among different sects of the society, and not to float hate materials that can possibly provoke chaos in the society.