Speaker of the House of Representatives of PABiH, Dr Denis Zvizdić, Addresses Second Day of the IPU Parliamentary Conference on Interfaith Dialogue in Rome

"The Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Parliamentary Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina (PA BiH), Dr Denis Zvizdić, took part in the second day of the Second Parliamentary Conference on Interfaith Dialogue: Strengthening Trust and Embracing Hope for Our Common Future, held in Rome under the auspices of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Parliament of the Republic of Italy.

In his address during the general debate, Speaker Zvizdić emphasised the many shared qualities of Sarajevo and Rome — two cities that stand as enduring symbols of spiritual heritage, rich history, and encounters between civilisations. He underscored that Bosnia and Herzegovina, with its deeply rooted religious and cultural diversity, represents a unique example of coexistence and mutual respect among different faiths and communities. This diversity, he stressed, is not only a valuable asset but also a profound responsibility.

Highlighting the importance of interfaith dialogue in countering the misuse of religion for political or ideological purposes, Dr Zvizdić remarked: “How can we expect to communicate with God if we are unwilling to communicate with one another? A shared dialogue between parliamentarians and religious leaders is essential to building just, dignified, and inclusive societies. We possess both the power and the responsibility to shape a world that respects diversity and safeguards the human rights of every individual.”

He placed particular emphasis on the significance of the International Conference held in Sarajevo in February 2024. On that occasion, as he noted, a powerful message was conveyed: that coexistence is not merely about tolerance, but about actively living together in a spirit of mutual respect. He underlined that the conclusions of the current conference must also be clearly articulated in order to resonate widely and effectively. “The goal is not to impose opinions or erase differences, but to create the conditions in which those differences can be understood and accepted,” Dr Zvizdić stated, concluding that dialogue is not a sign of weakness, but the most powerful instrument in combating intolerance. He stressed that parliamentary institutions must become open and inclusive spaces, places where diversity is not only respected, but actively affirmed and embraced.

The conference in Rome brought together parliamentarians, religious leaders, and experts from across the globe with the shared objective of advancing global dialogue, tolerance, and mutual understanding as essential foundations for a peaceful and sustainable future." (Statement issued by the Office of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Denis Zvizdić)