Use of Facebook and the disputes among religious communities

Abstract

Statistics show that despite the country's pandemic and economic setback, 40 per cent of the total population of Sri Lankans are using the internet. The following social media platforms, like Facebook, WhatsApp, and YouTube, are used mainly by Sri Lankans, according to the statistics available 8.4. Millions of Sri Lankans were using social media in 2022, which is 38.1 per cent of the country's total population. It is on the increase annually. Most people use Facebook and YouTube to view news, get information, and for recreation. Most people use Facebook for social engagement. The news and information displayed on social media bring helpful information and sometimes create tension among religious communities. This particular research aims to bring posts that were displayed on Facebook and brought about religious disorder in the Batticaloa district and the efforts made at the religious level to bring about peace and harmony among religious communities. The main objectives of this research are to build harmony among religious communities, to avoid posting news or information which brings religious disorder among people, to get clear and correct information before posting a post on Facebook, and to see that the information and views posted are helpful for a nonviolent communication among religious communities. By upholding these objectives, we can reduce tensions created by Facebook posts among religious communities and create a peaceful environment for all to live harmoniously amidst religious differences in the Batticaloa district.