The fall of Bashar Al Assad’s regime marks the end of a brutal era in Syria. After over a decade of civil war, opposition forces now control Damascus and hopes for reconciliation are emerging from the ruins. Rebel leaders have assured religious minorities, including Christians, of their safety and rights, signalling a commitment to inclusivity. As survivors of Sednaya prison reclaim their identities, the air is thick with both celebration and trepidation.
But the road ahead is fraught with challenges. The scars of war run deep, and the rebels’ ability to uphold their promises will determine Syria’s future. The international community, too, has a role to play by easing sanctions and supporting reconstruction efforts. Syria’s tale is a stark reminder of how one man’s unchecked ambition can plunge a nation into chaos, shattering millions of lives.
Bangladesh’s majoritarian menace
While Syria shows glimmers of hope, Bangladesh tells a darker tale where the Hindu minority continues to face persecution from the Muslim majority. Reports of temples desecrated, homes burned, and people attacked for not adhering to Islamic customs highlight a systemic effort to marginalise an already vulnerable community.
What is particularly troubling is the silence of some of the most influential voices in Bangladesh. The Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has remained conspicuously quiet in the face of these atrocities. His silence raises uncomfortable questions about his commitment to the principles for which he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
When figures of such stature fail to condemn injustice, it sends a dangerous message that persecution can occur without consequence. Perhaps it is time for the Nobel committee to review its selection criteria and consider revoking the award in cases where its recipients are found wanting in their moral responsibilities. Such an action would reinforce the prize’s purpose as a recognition of not just past achievements, but also an ongoing commitment to upholding human dignity and rights.
India a model of pluralism
In contrast, India stands out as a beacon of tolerance. A land where multiple faiths -Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism, Zoroastrianism, and Judaism – thrive, India embodies the principle of Unity in Diversity. Its Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to practice their religion freely.
Despite occasional communal and sectarian tensions, India’s enduring commitment to secularism has allowed its diverse communities to coexist for centuries, testifying to the country’s pluralistic ethos. Even the smallest minorities, such as Parsis and Jews, have found a welcoming home in India.
This inclusivity is not just a matter of policy but also a reflection of India’s cultural DNA. From celebrating Diwali and Eid to observing Christmas and Guru Nanak Jayanti, the nation’s festivals reflect a spirit of mutual respect and shared joy.
The contrasting trajectories of Syria, Bangladesh, and India offer valuable lessons. Syria shows that even the most oppressive regimes can fall, but rebuilding a fractured society requires collective effort and genuine commitment to inclusion. Bangladesh serves as a grim warning of the consequences of majoritarian dominance, where unchecked power breeds intolerance and division.
As the world watches Syria’s fragile transition and Bangladesh’s descent into majoritarian violence, the need for tolerance, inclusivity, and respect for diversity has never been more urgent. Whether rebuilding from the ashes or addressing existing divides, nations must prioritise these values to ensure lasting peace and prosperity.