Shiva Forum Europe Launches New Office to Promote Women and Youth Empowerment, Interreligious Dialogue, and the Values of Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism)
Press release // Oudenaarde, Belgium – Last february 14, 2025, Shiva Forum Europe, a prominent international organization dedicated to fostering understanding and dialogue among different cultures and religious communities, is proud to announce the opening of its new office in Oudenaarde, (East-Flanders) in collaboration with Sanatana Dharma Europe & Belgium.
This initiative aims to promote empowerment for women and youth, interreligious dialogue, and the core values of Sanatana Dharma, in alignment with the organization’s mission to build a more inclusive, peaceful, and just world. The new office will serve as a hub for organizing educational initiatives, community outreach, and dialogue programs that will work to uplift marginalized voices, especially women and youth, by providing them with opportunities for leadership, education, and social engagement. These programs will reflect the rich spiritual, philosophical, and cultural traditions of Sanatana Dharma while creating a platform for interfaith dialogue and understanding among diverse communities.
“We are thrilled to open our office in Europe and expand our reach to promote empowerment and peace through dialogue and understanding,” said Swami Bhairavananda Saraswati, Executive Director of Shiva Forum Europe.
“Through this office, we aim to create an inclusive space where women and youth can thrive, learn from one another, and work together to tackle some of the most pressing global issues. This will also be an opportunity to share the positive teachings of Sanatana Dharma, which emphasize respect for all beings, unity in diversity, and the importance of spiritual growth.”
The organization’s programs will include leadership training for women and youth, awareness campaigns on gender equality and education, and public forums on the role of religion in promoting peace and understanding. The office will also partner with other faith-based and secular organizations to encourage collective action toward sustainable and harmonious societies. Shiva Forum Europe’s mission is rooted in the deep teachings of Sanatana Dharma, which emphasizes compassion, nonviolence (ahimsa), and the interconnectedness of all life.
The organization hopes to foster a greater understanding of these principles through its programming and outreach efforts, creating a more harmonious and empathetic world. “We believe that interreligious dialogue and a focus on empowerment are essential to creating a future where people of all backgrounds, faiths, and cultures can live together in peace,” added Swamiji.
“Sanatana Dharma offers invaluable wisdom that can guide us towards living in harmony with nature and with one another, and we are excited to share this message across Europe.” With a dedicated team of diverse professionals, Shiva Forum Europe states that is ready to contribute positively to the global conversation on social justice, inclusion, and spiritual growth.
The organization invites individuals and groups interested in supporting its mission to “connect, collaborate, and become part of this transformative journey”.
For further information on Shiva Forum Europe’s programs and upcoming events, please visit: www.shivaforum.eu Contact:
Email: info[a]shivaforum.eu
Phone: +32.493.41.88.34
About Shiva Forum Europe:
Shiva Forum Europe is an international non-profit organization dedicated to fostering interreligious dialogue, women and youth empowerment, and the promotion of the core values of Sanatana Dharma. Through education, outreach, and collaboration, the forum seeks to create a more inclusive, peaceful, and just world for all.
