New Delhi Declaration, presented by Dr Damenda Porage, The Deputy General Secretary of the International Buddhist Confederation at The First Global Buddhist Summit Held in New Delhi
Global Buddhist Summit 2023
The focus of the Global Buddhist Summit was to provide a sustainable model for the future of the world including finding ways to share and internalize universal values and finding ways to work together in order to face global challenges. A general agreement exists that the principles of the Buddha’s teachings should be used to achieve the following goals by acting in the light of compassion for peace, well-being, harmony, and universal peace.
Goals
There is a great need in today’s world to be freed from conflicts, unwholesome thoughts, greed, selfishness, and uncertainty in life. Human beings are driven by the need for peace and harmony, both individually and globally. The principles of Buddhism are the best guide for inter-religious understanding and harmony. Peace is the basis for human happiness and well-being, and we recognize that conflict and violence are significant threats to peace. We therefore request all nations, organizations, and individuals to work towards creating a world free of conflict, violence, and war.
Environmental sustainability
Environmental decline can be identified as the main challenge that humans face today. Therefore, we confirm our commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development. We request that all governments and all world communities take action to reduce carbon emissions, protect biodiversity, and preserve natural resources for future generations.
Well-being
We recognize that true happiness comes from inner peace and contentment. We encourage people to develop mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom, which are essential to promoting happiness and well-being.
Buddha worship as a living heritage
We recognize the importance of Buddha worship as a living heritage that promotes spiritual growth, cultural understanding, and social harmony. We request all governments to preserve and protect sacred Buddhist places and make them accessible to people of all statuses.
Recommendations
There is a critical need for a better change in human attitude towards nature. Sangha, Buddhist leaders, scholars, followers, and institutions can play a significant and effective role in addressing this multifaceted crisis by drawing on the Buddha’s teachings for the well-being of all beings. Continuation of the annual Global Buddhist Summit is one such important step in this direction.
For nearly 700 years between the 5th and 12th centuries AD, Nalandā was a great centre of Buddhist learning, before the modern university system. It was renowned for its education of values and personality development. These values should be inculcated in the youth to invigorate the society towards “Vāsudēva Kuṭumbakam” (the concept of the world as one family).
© saipatthana magazine