Switzerland's House of Religions Spotlights Journey Towards Harmony and Tranquility
In the heart of Bern, Switzerland, the House of Religions - Dialogue of Cultures stands as a testament to the power of dialogue, inclusion, and coexistence. As its director, Laila Sheikh is at the helm of this unique institution that fosters cultural events, panel discussions, lectures, exhibitions, and educational activities for schools and professional groups.
Recently, Laila Sheikh represented Switzerland at the eighth Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, Kazakhstan. This gathering, held in September 2025, brought together 100 delegations of faith and civic leaders, including the Dalai Lama, Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church, and representatives from Islam, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, and other faiths. Key discussions focused on promoting interfaith dialogue, peacebuilding, combating religious extremism, and fostering global cooperation on humanitarian issues.
Laila Sheikh's commitment to dialogue and inclusion has deep personal roots. Growing up as one of the few Muslim children in the Catholic canton of Fribourg, Switzerland, she developed a keen understanding of the importance of understanding and respecting diverse faiths.
Back in Bern, the House of Religions serves as a 'showcase' of coexistence, with Muslims, Alevites, Buddhists, Christians, Hindus, Jewish, Baha'i, and Sikh communities holding ceremonies within its walls. The Hindu temple alone hosts more than 220 celebrations a year, and major holidays attract thousands of people.
As a director, Sheikh prioritizes expanding educational programs, growing audiences, ensuring sustainable financing, and advancing gender equality and safety. Most employees and volunteers at the House of Religions are women, whose strong commitment drives its mission of dialogue, justice, and peace.
Sheikh believes that religious leaders can use their influence positively for peaceful means, to reduce tensions, and even violence. She emphasizes the importance of empowering youth and engaging local communities in interfaith dialogue. Laila Sheikh stated that religious leaders have a key role to play in working towards the positive development of our shared planet.
The House of Religions' philosophy prioritizes equity among all groups and honours and respects each religious or cultural identity and tradition. This approach has led to the House of Religions receiving approximately 100,000 visitors annually, with each Friday seeing 300 people attend prayers.
Kazakhstan's role was reaffirmed as a global hub for dialogue at a time of geopolitical turbulence, with the Congress serving as a powerful reminder of the potential for dialogue and cooperation in addressing global challenges. Laila Sheikh's work at the House of Religions and her participation in the Congress are shining examples of the power of dialogue and coexistence in fostering peace and understanding in our increasingly interconnected world.
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