Distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, and all participants,
On behalf of the AMAN, We extend a warm welcome to all of you to this international seminar on “Politics of Identity in a Globalized World: Ethnicity, Nationalism, and Belongingness.”
We are particularly delighted to see such a diverse group of participants from many countries gathered here in IIPDS. Your presence signifies the global importance of this timely theme.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the question of identity takes on new complexities. This seminar provides a valuable platform to explore the interplay between ethnicity, nationalism, and the sense of belonging in a globalized context.
Over the next few days, we will delve into these critical issues, examining how they shape political landscapes, social dynamics, and individual experiences. We will hear from leading scholars and practitioners, fostering a rich discussion that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.
We view that the current global situation is not in a good condition. Problems of conflict in several countries have caused global instability. In this seminar, we will get an overview of the latest developments regarding Identity Politics from various countries. Currently, the issue of Politics of Identity has separated brotherhood in the name of humanity.
Many people believe that the issue of recognizing identity sometimes leads to attitudes as indicated by several scholars, namely co-optation and hegemony between strong and weak countries. We don’t want to mention how this happened in detail. Let the speakers provide us with data and analysis regarding this matter.
We are also very aware that the era of digitalization has also completely reduced the spaces for ethnicity and nationalism. This is because in the virtual world, its inhabitants are no longer very interested in discussing ethnicity or identities that have a certain time and space. They want to become citizens of the world regardless of their respective backgrounds.
In this context, AMAN as a transnational civil organization always wants to prioritize humanitarian values in building world peace today. For more than 30 years AMAN has worked in Southeast Asia and South Asia, building humanitarian missions. We have a strong network to build solid cooperation.
We are very happy today, Dr. Abdus Sabur as one of the founders of AMAN is still with us. I would like to say that Dr. Sabur will be remembered by anyone who has worked with AMAN. It must also be acknowledged that several of AMAN’s founders have passed away to the rabbinate. We just lost Prof. Chaiwat Satha-Anand months ago. Likewise, Prof. Azyumardi Azra, as the previous President of AMAN, also passed away two years ago.
However, their spirit for the younger generation in the extended AMAN family remains intact. Sometimes we are far apart due to geographic factors, but very close in conscience.
We believe that through open dialogue and exchange of ideas, we can gain deeper insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by the evolving complexities of identity in our globalized world.
I was told that over 80 participants attended this very important event. Thank you for your presence at IIPDS. This Center also regularly carries out various activities and programs. We hope that your visit to IIPDS will not be your last. There will be many programs offered by this institute in the future.
We would like to express our gratitude from our friends at Swahid Peoli Phukan College in Namti, India and the host IIPDS along with several of their capable staff who have worked hard to prepare this event. May Allah bring all goodness to you all.
With that, We invite you all to actively participate in the discussions, share your perspectives, and learn from one another.
Thank you.
