Radhanath Swami tends to approach criticism of ISKCON by first acknowledging that serious problems have existed within the institution, particularly in its earlier decades. Rather than denying or minimizing these failings, he recognizes that some leaders and members have acted improperly and that such actions have caused real harm. At the same time, he distinguishes between the eternal spiritual teachings of bhakti and the imperfect behavior of individuals attempting to live by those teachings. This distinction allows him to affirm the value of the tradition while not excusing misconduct carried out in its name.

Alongside this acknowledgment, he consistently emphasizes the need for reform, accountability, and personal responsibility. He supports institutional measures aimed at improving governance, strengthening ethical standards, and protecting vulnerable members, and he encourages devotees to take responsibility for their actions rather than defend what cannot be defended. In his presentations, the call to reform is grounded in core values such as humility, compassion, and integrity, so that institutional change is seen as an expression of genuine spiritual practice rather than a merely external adjustment.

Another characteristic of his response is a commitment to dialogue and transparency. He encourages open conversation with critics and those who have been hurt, advocating respectful listening rather than defensive argument. In public forums and writings, he addresses concerns directly, including those related to leadership issues and the perception of ISKCON as overly rigid or cult-like. This willingness to engage is framed as part of a broader spiritual ethic: truthfulness, openness, and the courage to face uncomfortable realities are treated as integral to authentic devotion.

Finally, Radhanath Swami often situates these discussions within a broader reflection on what it means to embody spiritual principles in a complex world. He repeatedly returns to the idea that the credibility of a spiritual movement rests not on claims of perfection but on the sincerity with which it confronts its shortcomings and strives to live up to its ideals. In that spirit, he highlights ISKCON’s positive contributions—such as charitable work, education, and efforts at character transformation—not as a way to cancel out past wrongs, but as an indication of what the movement can become when its members align their conduct with the values they profess.