O P Jindal Global University and Indialogue Foundation co-organise International Hizmet Conference 2026

Introduction

The International Hizmet Conference 2026, titled “The Role of Social Movements in Cultivating Trust and Collaboration in Diverse Societies,” was held on 5–6 February 2026 at O P Jindal Global University, Sonipat. The conference was jointly organised by O P Jindal Global University, Sonipat and Indialogue Foundation, Noida. The conference aimed to explore the evolving role of the Hizmet Movement in fostering peace, mutual respect, and resilience within culturally, ethnically, and religiously diverse societies.

In a time marked by increasing polarisation and social division, the conference emphasised the importance of faith-inspired civil society initiatives in promoting dialogue, ethical leadership, and co-existence. Bringing together nearly 100 scholars, researchers, and civil society representatives from 30 countries, the two-day event provided a platform for meaningful discussions on trust-building and collaborative engagement across communities.

Inaugural Session

The Inaugural Session of the International Hizmet Conference commenced with welcome addresses by distinguished leaders representing both the co-organisers.

The speakers, in order, were:

• Prof Dr C Raj Kumar, Vice Chancellor of O P Jindal Global University
• Prof Dr Sreeram Chaulia, Dean of the Jindal School of International Relations
• Mr Qamar Agha, President of Indialogue Foundation
• Mr Behzad Fatmi, Executive Director of Indialogue Foundation

In his keynote remarks, Prof Dr C Raj Kumar underscored the strong alignment between the University’s mission and vision and the core values of the Hizmet Movement. He emphasised the institution’s commitment to fostering dialogue, academic excellence, and global engagement, and expressed his pleasure in hosting a conference of such international significance.

Prof Dr Sreeram Chaulia reflected on his meeting with Fethullah Gülen in 2023, sharing personal insights from their discussion. He noted that the Hizmet Movement represents a meaningful and constructive initiative, particularly from India’s perspective, highlighting its emphasis on education, dialogue, and social responsibility.

In their addresses, Mr Qamar Agha and Mr Behzad Fatmi warmly welcomed the delegates from around the world and underscored the significance of the gathering as the first International Hizmet Conference held in India. They outlined the fundamental goals of the Hizmet Movement – promoting education, dialogue, social harmony, and peaceful coexistence – and expressed hope that the conference would strengthen global understanding and collaboration.

The Inaugural Session set a thoughtful and forward-looking tone, highlighting a shared commitment to dialogue and global engagement.

Panel Sessions

The International Hizmet Conference featured a dynamic series of panel sessions that brought together approximately 100 scholars, academics, and associates from 30 countries. Out of 123 submitted papers, 41 selected papers were presented across thematic panels, reflecting both scholarly depth and global diversity.

The panel discussions were structured around the following key themes:

• Foundations of Hizmet Thought, Ethics, and Philosophy
• Environmental Ethics, Arts, and Music from the Hizmet Perspective
• Interfaith Dialogue, Religious Encounter, and Comparative Traditions
• Peacebuilding, Conflict Resolution, and Dialogue Theory
• Social Cohesion, Migration, and Transnational Hizmet Communities
• Hizmet as a Catalyst for Peace: Leadership, Dialogue, and Transnational Community
• Cultural Diplomacy, Dialogue Trips, and Civic Engagement
• Hizmet, Leadership Models, and Global Organizational Practice
• Science for Peace, Coexistence, and Pluralism
• Education, Moral Formation, and Global Citizenship
• Hizmet as a Global Ethic: Intercultural Values, Renewal, and Civic Engagement

The discussions were further enriched by the presence of distinguished and highly respected moderators, including Mr Sudheendra Kulkarni, Dr Maya Joshi, Dr Irfanullah Farooqi, Prof Vonya Womack, Prof Sreeram Chaulia, Dr Rainer Hermann, Dr Ranjana Kumari, Prof Philip Clayton, Prof Jon Pahl, Prof Ides Nicaise, and Prof Sotiris Livas. Their incisive insights and thoughtful interventions brought exceptional depth and intellectual rigor to the proceedings, significantly enhancing the quality and impact of the panels.

Gala Evening

Following the academic sessions, a distinguished gala dinner was hosted in honor of the delegates, providing a culturally enriching and elegant conclusion to the conference. Accompanied by soulful Sufi music, the evening fostered warm interaction between international participants and Indian Hizmet friends, strengthening bonds of friendship and mutual understanding. The renowned ensemble Vinay Verma Collective captivated the audience and expressed their appreciation for being introduced to the ideals of the Hizmet Movement.

A highlight of the evening was the keynote address by Dr Alp Aslandogan, Executive Director of the Alliance for Shared Values, who delivered a comprehensive and well-received presentation on the historical foundations of Hizmet, its core values and global activities, its contributions to India, and the enduring lessons that can be drawn from India’s rich civilisational heritage. The gala was attended by approximately 250 distinguished guests, marking a memorable and meaningful culmination of the conference.

Among the distinguished participants were Ms Arfa Khanum Sherwani, one of India’s most prominent journalists; Mr Sanjay Singh, Member of Parliament from New Delhi; and Mr Harsh Mander, noted author and social thinker.

Post-Conference Cultural Tour

Following the conference, a cultural immersion program was organised for the international delegates, including a guided city tour of New Delhi on 7 February and a visit to the iconic Taj Mahal on 8 February. These visits offered delegates a firsthand experience of India’s rich cultural heritage, architectural grandeur, and civilisational depth.

The thoughtfully curated tours not only showcased the historical and artistic legacy of India but also provided a meaningful opportunity for delegates to connect more deeply with the country’s cultural spirit and timeless traditions.