Important Dialogue on Islamic Studies

On November 5, the 6th International Scientific and Practical Conference, titled “Challenges of Understanding Islam in the Era of Globalization,” was held in cooperation between the International Islamic Studies Academy of Uzbekistan and the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO).

The conference brought together representatives of leading higher education institutions, research centers, and international organizations from Türkiye, Egypt, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan.

Professor Shovosil Ziyodov, Doctor of Historical Sciences and Director of the Imam Bukhari International Scientific Research Center, participated in the conference online and delivered a presentation entitled “The Right to Revive and Disseminate Enlightenment in the Era of Globalization.”

In his address, Professor Ziyodov highlighted the reforms undertaken in Uzbekistan in the field of religious education and enlightenment, as well as ongoing efforts to study the rich scholarly heritage of great Islamic scholars and promote their intellectual contributions internationally.

Particular emphasis was placed on the establishment of international research centers dedicated to Imam Bukhari, Imam Tirmidhi, Imam Maturidi, and Bahauddin Naqshband. The importance of translating and publishing the works of these distinguished scholars, accompanied by scholarly commentaries and explanations, to make their intellectual legacy accessible to a wider audience was also underscored.

The presentation further highlighted the vital role of scholarly heritage, education, and sound intellectual reasoning in countering religious ignorance, radical ideologies, and extremism amid accelerating globalization. It was noted that the principle of “Combating Ignorance through Enlightenment” serves as a cornerstone of Uzbekistan’s approach to addressing challenges in the religious and educational spheres.

The conference provided a valuable platform for constructive dialogue on promoting an accurate understanding of Islam in the era of globalization, preventing religious radicalization, advancing the scholarly analysis of Islamic sources, and strengthening international cooperation in education and enlightenment.