Religious wars today; Buddhists Burn Mosque in Myanmar

Religious Wars Today: Buddhists Turning Violent

Updated August 2023

The situation in Myanmar concerning the Rohingya minority is indeed profoundly concerning and has attracted international attention due to the severity of human rights violations. While the term “genocide” is a legal designation that requires specific criteria to be met, allegations of systematic rape, forced labour, restrictions on movement, marriage, and reproduction, as well as denial of access to medicine and food rations, are severe violations of human rights.

The international community and human rights organizations have documented these abuses and have expressed alarm about the potential for the situation to escalate into genocide if left unaddressed. It is essential to closely monitor and respond to such warnings, as history has shown that ethnic cleansing can potentially evolve into genocide, as was the case with the Holocaust.

Penny Green’s report, released by the International State Crime Initiative (ISCI), argues that the Myanmar government has demonstrated genocidal intent towards the Rohingya. While legal determinations regarding genocide fall within the purview of international courts, the evidence and allegations have prompted calls for international intervention and the activation of the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) principle.

The Responsibility to Protect principle, as outlined in the United Nations Charter, provides a framework for the international community to intervene when a state is unable or unwilling to protect its own population from mass atrocities. The severity of the human rights violations against the Rohingya has led many to argue that invoking this principle is necessary to address the crisis and protect the affected population.

It is important to note that the actions of extremist groups or individuals within a religious community should not be conflated with the broader principles and teachings of Buddhism. Buddhism, like any religion, promotes peace, compassion, and non-violence. The actions of extremist individuals do not represent the beliefs and teachings of the larger Buddhist community.

In examining the role of Buddhism in world politics, it is crucial to recognize that religions can be interpreted differently and influenced by various socio-political factors. The actions of individuals or groups who distort religious teachings to promote violence and discrimination are contrary to the fundamental principles of Buddhism and other religions that advocate for peace and harmony.

Addressing the human rights violations against the Rohingya requires concerted efforts from the international community, including diplomatic pressure, humanitarian aid, and support for justice and accountability mechanisms. It is crucial to hold accountable those responsible for human rights abuses and to work towards a sustainable solution that upholds the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds. Full Story

Religious Wars Today: Buddhists Resorting to Violence in Burma

The situations in Myanmar (Burma) and Sri Lanka, where Buddhist groups have resorted to violence, are indeed troubling and raise questions about the contradictions between the actions of these groups and the teachings of Buddhism.

In Sri Lanka, tensions have flared over issues such as halal slaughter and the size of Muslim families. The Bodu Bala Sena, or the Buddhist Brigade, has been at the forefront of these tensions, organizing rallies, calling for direct action, boycotting Muslim businesses, and expressing concerns about the influence of Muslims in society.

In Myanmar, the situation is more severe, with the 969 groups led by the controversial monk Ashin Wirathu. Wirathu has been known for making inflammatory statements and has been compared to “the Burmese Bin Laden.” The violence in Myanmar has resulted in significant human rights abuses, mainly targeting the Rohingya Muslim minority.

It is important to emphasize that the actions of these Buddhist extremist groups do not represent the broader Buddhist community or the teachings of Buddhism as a whole. Buddhism, at its core, emphasizes non-violence, compassion, and loving-kindness towards all beings. The Dhammapada, a revered text in Buddhism, contains teachings that stress the importance of one’s thoughts, the cessation of hatred through love, and the abstention from killing living creatures.

The discrepancy between the actions of these extremist groups and the teachings of Buddhism highlights the complex interplay between religion, socio-political factors, and historical grievances. It is crucial to differentiate between the actions of a few individuals or groups and the broader principles and teachings of Buddhism. Engaging in interfaith dialogue, promoting understanding, and addressing the underlying issues that contribute to tensions are essential steps toward fostering peaceful coexistence.

The situations in Myanmar and Sri Lanka reinforce the importance of promoting tolerance, respect for religious diversity, and adherence to human rights principles. It is imperative for governments, religious leaders, civil society organizations, and international actors to work together to address the root causes of these conflicts and ensure the protection of minority rights.

The Escalation of Religious Conflicts: Buddhism, Violence, and the Modern World

The escalation of religious tensions in Myanmar and Sri Lanka in recent years has indeed brought forth concerning developments, as extremist Buddhist groups have targeted Muslim minorities, leading to violence, displacement, and deepening divisions within these societies. This troubling trend prompts us to reflect on the role of Buddhism in violence and its place in the modern world.

Buddhism, at its core, is a religion that espouses principles of peace, compassion, and non-violence. It teaches followers to cultivate inner harmony, promote understanding, and alleviate suffering. However, like any religion, Buddhism is practised by individuals who interpret its teachings in various ways, influenced by cultural, historical, and socio-political contexts. It is within these contexts that conflicts rooted in religious identity have emerged.

It is crucial to recognize that the actions of extremist Buddhist groups do not represent the broader Buddhist community or the teachings of Buddhism as a whole. These acts of violence are perpetrated by individuals or factions who distort the peaceful teachings of Buddhism to fuel hatred, xenophobia, or nationalist agendas. Their actions contradict the fundamental principles of the religion they claim to uphold.

The complexities of religious conflicts extend beyond Buddhism itself. They often intertwine with historical grievances, socio-political dynamics, economic disparities, and ethno-nationalist narratives. The intersection of these factors can exacerbate tensions and contribute to the perpetuation of violence.

Addressing religious conflicts requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates fostering interfaith dialogue, promoting understanding, and nurturing a culture of tolerance and respect. Governments, religious leaders, civil society organizations, and international actors all have a role to play in promoting peace and addressing the underlying causes of these conflicts. It is essential to address socio-economic disparities, promote inclusive governance, and ensure the protection of minority rights to build a foundation for harmonious coexistence.

Furthermore, it is vital to engage in critical self-reflection within Buddhist communities and encourage an open dialogue about the misuse of religious teachings. Buddhist leaders who uphold the principles of non-violence and compassion can play a pivotal role in denouncing violence, promoting understanding, and guiding their communities towards peace.

In the modern world, where globalization has brought diverse communities closer, it is crucial to embrace the principles of pluralism, respect for religious freedom, and the acknowledgement of shared humanity. By fostering dialogue, promoting education, and addressing the root causes of religious tensions, societies can work towards a future where religious diversity becomes a source of strength rather than discord.

The challenging task of addressing religious conflicts requires sustained efforts, collaboration, and a commitment to upholding the values that underpin peaceful coexistence. By confronting the complexities at hand with unwavering dedication, we can foster a world where religious differences are celebrated, violence is rejected, and the principles of compassion and understanding prevail.

Escalating Persecution of Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar

The persecution of the Rohingya Muslim minority in Myanmar is indeed a grave and ongoing human rights crisis. The violence and atrocities committed against the Rohingya, as documented by the United Nations and various human rights organizations, are deeply concerning.

The military-led crackdown in Myanmar, which escalated in 2017, involved widespread burning of Rohingya villages, mass killings, sexual violence, torture, and forced displacement. The severity of the violence forced hundreds of thousands of Rohingya to flee to neighbouring Bangladesh, where they sought refuge in overcrowded and impoverished camps.

The UN fact-finding mission in 2018 concluded that the military’s actions amounted to genocide and crimes against humanity. The evidence gathered included testimonies of survivors, satellite imagery, and other documentation indicating systematic and organized violence targeting the Rohingya population.

Despite international condemnation and calls for accountability, the persecution and discrimination against the Rohingya continue. Many Rohingya who remain in Myanmar are confined to internment camps in Rakhine State, where they face dire living conditions and are denied access to basic rights and services. The denial of citizenship and restrictions on their freedom of movement exacerbate their vulnerability and perpetuate their marginalization.

The international community, including governments, human rights organizations, and various institutions, continues to advocate for justice, accountability, and the protection of the Rohingya people. Efforts are underway to address the crisis through diplomatic channels, legal mechanisms, humanitarian aid, and support for the rights and well-being of the Rohingya.

It is essential to emphasize the importance of upholding human rights and ensuring the safety and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their ethnic or religious background. Resolving the Rohingya crisis requires sustained engagement, both from within Myanmar and through international pressure, to address the root causes of the conflict and create conditions for the safe and voluntary return of displaced Rohingya, accompanied by guarantees of their rights and protection.

Anti-Muslim Sentiment Rising in Sri Lanka

The rise of anti-Muslim sentiment and incidents of violence perpetrated by extremist Buddhist groups in Sri Lanka, such as Bodu Bala Sena (BBS), is a concerning development. These groups, led by nationalist monks, have been responsible for promoting hatred, inciting violence, and targeting Muslim businesses, mosques, and homes.

The rhetoric employed by these extremist groups often revolves around the notion of protecting Sri Lanka from an imagined Muslim takeover, fueling fear and animosity towards the Muslim community. Such narratives are not only divisive but also undermine the principles of tolerance, coexistence, and respect for religious and ethnic diversity.

The tensions escalated in 2018 when BBS-incited mobs launched attacks on Muslims in the central highlands district of Kandy. These attacks resulted in the destruction of homes and businesses, with tragic consequences, including loss of life. To mitigate the violence and control the situation, the Sri Lankan government temporarily blocked access to social media sites like Facebook, which were being used to spread hate speech and coordinate attacks.

It is crucial to address the root causes of this rising anti-Muslim sentiment and violence in Sri Lanka. This includes addressing underlying socio-political, economic, and historical factors that contribute to tensions between different communities. Promoting interfaith dialogue, fostering understanding, and building bridges of trust among communities are essential steps toward countering extremism and promoting social harmony.

Efforts should also focus on strengthening the rule of law, ensuring accountability for perpetrators of violence and hate crimes, and protecting the rights and safety of all individuals, regardless of their religious or ethnic background.

In addition, promoting education, and media literacy, and raising awareness about the importance of diversity and pluralism can help combat prejudice and discrimination. It requires the collective efforts of government, civil society, religious leaders, and the international community to address these challenges and create a more inclusive and tolerant society.

The Easter Bombings and Backlash

The Easter bombings in Sri Lanka in 2019 were a tragic incident that resulted in the loss of many innocent lives. Coordinated suicide bombings targeted churches and hotels, causing significant casualties and widespread shock and grief.

Following the bombings, there was a disturbing wave of anti-Muslim backlash in Sri Lanka. Mobs attacked Muslim homes, shops, and mosques, leading to further violence and tensions between different religious communities. In response to the communal violence, the government imposed a nationwide curfew to restore order and prevent further escalation.

As part of its response to the bombings, the Sri Lankan government also implemented a ban on face coverings, including niqabs and burqas, citing security concerns. However, this move was widely criticized as being discriminatory against Muslims and infringing upon religious freedom. Critics argued that the ban stigmatized the Muslim community and did not address the root causes of extremism.

Over time, the ban faced significant opposition and was eventually overturned in 2021 following widespread criticism and legal challenges. The decision to lift the ban was seen by many as a positive step towards promoting religious freedom and tolerance in Sri Lanka.

It is crucial to recognize that acts of terrorism should not be used to justify discrimination or violence against an entire religious or ethnic group. The actions of extremist individuals or groups do not represent the beliefs or values of the broader Muslim community, which consists of millions of peaceful and law-abiding individuals.

Addressing the aftermath of such incidents requires a comprehensive approach that includes efforts to promote interfaith dialogue, strengthen social cohesion, and ensure that the rights and security of all individuals, regardless of their religious or ethnic background, are protected.

Reconciling Buddhism and Violence

You are correct in pointing out that the involvement of Buddhists in acts of violence contradicts the core principles of Buddhism, which emphasize non-violence, loving-kindness, and compassion. Buddhism, as a religion, encourages its followers to cultivate inner peace, practice harmlessness, and promote the well-being of all beings.

The justifications for violence by some individuals or groups within Buddhism, such as self-defence or defence of faith and nation, are not in line with the teachings of Buddhism as a whole. Buddhism teaches that violence only perpetuates suffering and that hatred cannot be overcome by hatred.

It is important to recognize that the rise of “Buddhist nationalism” and the distortion of religious teachings to justify violence are concerning phenomena. They highlight that no religion is immune from being misinterpreted or exploited to serve political or ideological agendas.

However, it is crucial to avoid generalizing the actions of a few individuals or groups to the entire Buddhist community. The majority of Buddhists strongly denounce violence and advocate for peace, understanding, and harmony among different religious and ethnic groups.

It is essential for religious leaders, scholars, and practitioners to promote a deeper understanding of Buddhist teachings and to address the root causes that contribute to the distortion of religious beliefs. Interfaith dialogue, education, and efforts to foster mutual respect and empathy among different communities can play a significant role in countering extremism and promoting peaceful coexistence.

The challenges of reconciling religious teachings with the actions of individuals or groups who engage in violence are not unique to Buddhism. Similar challenges exist in other religions as well. It is the responsibility of individuals, communities, and societies to continuously engage in critical reflection, promote tolerance, and reject violence in all its forms.

Moving Forward

Indeed, amidst the challenges and tensions, there are hopeful signs and positive actions being taken in both Myanmar and Sri Lanka. The rejection of revenge and the organization of interfaith vigils in Sri Lanka demonstrates the resilience and determination of communities to promote unity and solidarity in the face of adversity. These efforts are crucial in fostering understanding, promoting tolerance, and healing the wounds caused by violence and division.

The global pressure and the charges of genocide against Myanmar at the UN International Court of Justice are important steps towards accountability for the atrocities committed against the Rohingya population. It signifies the international community’s commitment to addressing human rights violations and seeking justice for the victims. Such actions can help deter future violence and send a message that impunity for grave crimes will not be tolerated.

However, as you rightly point out, lasting solutions require addressing the deeper roots of religious intolerance and racism. This involves addressing socio-political, economic, and historical factors that contribute to tensions between different communities. Promoting education, interfaith dialogue, and initiatives that foster empathy and respect for diversity are crucial in addressing these underlying issues.

Furthermore, it is essential for governments, civil society organizations, religious leaders, and international actors to work together in creating an inclusive and just society that upholds the principles of human rights, equality, and non-discrimination. This may involve legal reforms, strengthening institutions that protect minority rights, and promoting social and economic development that benefits all segments of society.

Sustained efforts are necessary to build trust, bridge divides, and promote reconciliation among communities. It is a long-term process that requires the commitment and collaboration of all stakeholders involved.