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On April 8, 2026, at 91��ý Kazakh National University, within the framework of the V International 91��ý Forum, an international roundtable was held on the topic “Religious Tolerance and Social Stability: The Context of Kazakhstan and Central Asia,” which became an important scientific platform for discussing pressing spiritual and social issues in the region. The event was organized jointly by the Faculty of Philosophy and Political Science, the Public Foundation “Center for the Study of Terrorism and Extremism in the Republic of Kazakhstan,” and the Center for Religious Studies and Expert Analysis. The roundtable was implemented within the framework of the AP26104327 grant project, aimed at developing artificial intelligence algorithms to promote interfaith dialogue and strengthen national unity, which significantly enhanced its scientific and practical relevance.

The main goal of the event was to comprehensively study the role of religious systems in the multiethnic and multi-confessional societies of Kazakhstan and Central Asian countries, as well as their influence on strengthening national identity. During the discussions, methods of comparative analysis of sacred texts, the historical role of world religions — Islam, Christianity, and Buddhism — in uniting society, and modern mechanisms for developing interfaith dialogue were examined. In addition, scholars discussed the role of religion in shaping social values among youth and the transformation of religious consciousness in the modern information environment. These new research approaches contributed to expanding scientific understanding of the region’s spiritual security. Participants also addressed the interaction between religion and modern technologies, emphasizing the potential of digital media in promoting religious tolerance. During the discussion, relevant proposals regarding the social responsibility of religious organizations were also raised.

The roundtable moderator, Professor Kakimzhan Bishmanov, welcomed the participants and introduced foreign scholars from Uzbekistan, highlighting their scientific experience and achievements. The head of the Department of Religious Studies and Cultural Studies at the Faculty of Philosophy and Political Science, Professor Ainur Kurmanalieva, in her welcoming remarks, emphasized the relevance of new directions in religious studies, social stability, and cultural identity issues.

Uzbek scholars extensively analyzed the regional experience of developing tolerance. Professor Kurban Shadmanov examined the historical stages of tolerance development in Uzbekistan and the impact of language reforms on social integration. Professor Bobir Namozov highlighted the contribution of interethnic dialogue among Central Asian peoples to peace and unity. Associate Professor Erkin Zoirov analyzed the role of Sufism in shaping spiritual tolerance and examined the interactions between tariqats from a scientific perspective.

Kazakh scholars also presented their research findings: Professor Karlygash Borbasova addressed issues of religious education quality and documentation, while Associate Professor Zhanna Kantarbayeva analyzed state-confessional relations from legal and social perspectives. PhD Dinara Utebayeva and Professor M.A. Mira Baltymova presented new empirical data on contemporary forms of tolerance and their role in society.

Overall, the roundtable contributed to uniting scientific approaches for strengthening religious harmony in the region, fostering a culture of mutual respect among confessions, and developing new practical proposals. The event became a significant platform providing concrete and effective guidelines for future research and practical initiatives, and it was officially recognized as highly valuable for the scientific community.