Abstract
This paper discusses findings from a British Academy funded study exploring South Asian faith community relations in Britain. Focus groups conducted by same faith and gender matched facilitators explored perceptions of inter-group relations with British Sikh, Muslim and Hindu participants. Despite an acknowledgment of strong joint South Asian activism, concerns regarding how divisive domestic policies, as well as imported ideological teachings and right-wing nationalist politics from countries of origin (such as Hindutva), can detrimentally impact the way communities interact within the British urban space. Furthermore, participants discussed how inflammatory content shared transnationally via social media has contributed towards instigating tensions, which was not the case in previous decades. The study therefore contributes empirically informed discussion to both national and international debates regarding inter-religious engagement.
Presenters
Serena HussainAssociate Professor, Centre for Peace and Security, Coventry University, Warwickshire, United Kingdom
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
South Asian Religions, Transnational religious movements, Right-wing politics, Minorities, Colonialism
