Engaging with the Religious Sector for Peace
Currently serving as the interim director for Religion and Inclusive societies at the United States Institute for Peace, Palwasha Kakar, MTS '04, is promoting religious literacy and a sustainable geopolitical peace.
Palwasha Kakar, MTS ‘04
Interim Director for Religion & Inclusive Societies, United States Institute of Peace (Washington, D.C.)
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Describe the work you do today:
I lead the USIP program on engaging with the religious sector for peace. My program has three pillars: religious literacy, strategic religious engagement for sustainable peace, geopolitics of religion on innovative policies and assessments. We have 22 work streams that include religious freedom and indigenous peacebuilding.
How has your HDS degree influenced your career journey?
I learned about the role of religion in diplomacy and foreign policy at HDS. I was connected to networks of peacebuilders who understood the influential role of religion and did not shy away from it.
What career advice would you offer to current HDS students?
Look at all the opportunities that exist across all the faculties and schools and build your own hybrid studies. Do not waste opportunities to meet with visiting fellows, scholars, lecturers and build connections based on your interest that will help you in your future. Stay in touch with your fellow classmates and professors.