Our Mission
UPIC elevates the role that faith-affirming individuals can play in building constructive, peaceful relations between the United States and Pakistan by fostering interpersonal connections, breaking harmful stereotypes, and implementing sustainable and empowering programs in both countries.
News
Diplomacy Welcomes UPIC to Seton Hall
The School of Diplomacy is pleased to welcome the U.S.-Pakistan Interreligious Coalition to Seton Hall University. Learn more about this exciting announcement by reading an interview with Rev. Robert Chase, Chair of the UPIC Executive Committee here >>
2017 UPIC Delegation Visits Pakistan
UPIC's seventh trip to Pakistan in April 2017, brought together 30 delegates from 12 countries. It was an opportunity to reflect on what UPIC has achieved since 2011. Having stressed interpersonal connections as a tool for creating a bridge between seemingly divided...
Reflections
A Day with a Christian Community in Islamabad
There is a certain fragrance to Pakistan which, when newly arrived, one notices when stepping into the cool night air after passing innumerable hours in the stale atmosphere of an intercontinental jetliner. No one seems quite sure of the source of the sweetness, but it is as unexpected as it is memorable.
Studying Talmud in Islamabad
I arrived a bit late for the first presentation. There was no seat available, but as soon as I entered a traditional looking Muslim man got up and offered me his seat. I was bit embarrassed both at being late and at having been offered a seat by someone who clearly arrived on time. Yet welcomed so graciously, I sat down.
“Why are You Going to Pakistan?”
I took a deep breath, dialed the number, and pressed call… “Hi Mom, are you sitting down? I think I’m going to Pakistan.”
Pakistan: Perspectives, Perception, and Prejudice
It is not lost on me that as a Native Angeleno who grew up in that urban corridor infamously called “Watts-Compton,” labeling communities, cities, and countries as “too dangerous” to travel there is not unfamiliar to me.
Women and Faith-Based Peace, by Kendra Brock
Women play crucial roles in faith communities, and have the potential to play an important role in peacebuilding and the deconstruction of stereotypes.
Meet Our Team
Rev. Robert Chase
Fellow at Seton Hall University’s School of Diplomacy and International Relations
Rev. Chase leads the U.S.-Pakistan Interreligious Coalition (UPIC) program.
Rev. Dr. Brian Keenan Muzás
Director of the Center for United Nations and Global Governance Studies at Seton Hall University
Rev. Dr. Muzás has been part of UPIC since its inception.
“I’m here in Pakistan to help us break down stereotypes and build understanding and come up with an action plan to create mutual trust and build peace between our people.”