Introduction to FPCC and Why Faith Leaders’ Engagement Matters

UNICEF, Religions for Peace and the Joint Learning Initiative on Faith and Local Communities aim to harness the powerful influence of faith leaders to address critical humanitarian and developmental challenges, particularly those affecting children globally. The Faith and Positive Change for Children, Families, and Communities initiative launched globally in 2018 and in South Asia in 2022, bringing together dozens of religious leaders, scholars, academics, government and non-governmental organizations. 

South Asia is a diverse and complex region, making efforts to mainstream it difficult. Yet the respect and trust faith leaders hold within their communities make them ideal partners in promoting social and behavioral change on issues like child protection, education, nutrition and immunization. 

FPCC empowers religious leaders with scientific knowledge and the strategies necessary to drive sustainable, positive change through proven tactics such as the Mind-Heart dialogue methodology. 

Faith leaders are pillars of influence in South Asian communities. They hold a position of profound respect and influence across societies. From offering daily guidance to presiding over critical life events, their opinions and teachings are integral to the everyday lives of their followers. These leaders are not only spiritual guides but also key influencers in shaping social and cultural norms beyond what typical social and behavioral change communications programs might achieve. 

The deep trust that communities place in faith leaders makes them ideal partners for addressing complex social issues. Regardless of the size of their congregations, their sect, or faith affiliations, these leaders possess the power to unite communities around shared values. In every mosque or faith institution, from small village mosques to prominent urban churches, leaders are revered figures whose teachings are absorbed attentively by the masses.

This methodology fosters open communication and mutual understanding between faith leaders, UNICEF, faith-based organizations and government actors. The program aims to build relationships while aligning the goals of faith leaders with broader humanitarian objectives. In this way, faith leaders become well-equipped with the scientific evidence and contextual understanding they need to address pressing issues. 

The FPCC initiative has already seen success. The trainer’s approach prepared 30 participants from all eight South Asian countries (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Pakistan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka) to lead. This training has empowered faith leaders, and others not only to understand developmental challenges but also to become advocates for solutions within their communities.

To engage faith leaders effectively, FPCC partners developed a multi-layered approach focused on trust-building, capacity development and consistent engagement. Establishing relationships with faith leaders requires time, resources and a genuine commitment to co-creation. The key to FPCC’s success lies in its emphasis on transparency, regular dialogues, and setting clear objectives that resonate with faith leaders and their communities.

FPCC’s strategy builds lasting, sustainable partnerships with faith leaders, faith networks and inter-faith councils. In many communities, faith leaders hold sway over large congregations and have networks that extend beyond local boundaries. An effective partnership with a single faith leader can have a ripple effect, influencing entire communities and even national conversations.

FPCC continues to strengthen these networks, facilitating dialogues with spiritual influencers and groups that promote religious engagement. These networks can amplify positive messaging on child protection, health, and social issues, fostering a more comprehensive approach to behavior change. 

Through ongoing capacity-building efforts FPCC ensures that faith leaders are not only knowledgeable but are active participants in developing solutions for the challenges facing their communities. This long-term engagement ensures that faith leaders can integrate humanitarian and development priorities into their faith teachings, creating a holistic approach to community development.