17.3 Religion in Global Conflicts and Peacemaking

Conflict resolution refers to the methods and processes involved in facilitating the peaceful ending of conflict and retribution. It aims to address the underlying issues of disputes while promoting understanding and reconciliation among conflicting parties. This approach is particularly relevant in scenarios where cultural or religious differences fuel tensions, highlighting the role of dialogue, negotiation, and mediation.

mediation: A process where a neutral third party assists conflicting parties in reaching a mutually acceptable agreement.

negotiation: A discussion aimed at reaching an agreement between two or more parties, often involving compromise and collaboration.

peacebuilding: Efforts aimed at establishing lasting peace by addressing the root causes of conflict and fostering social cohesion.

Reconciliation refers to the process of restoring relationships, harmony, and understanding between conflicting parties, often after a period of hostility or disagreement. It involves acknowledging past grievances, fostering forgiveness, and building trust to promote peaceful coexistence. In the context of global conflicts, reconciliation is a crucial step in healing communities and societies torn apart by violence and strife.

Restorative Justice: A system of criminal justice that focuses on the rehabilitation of offenders through reconciliation with victims and the community at large.

Conflict Resolution: The methods and processes involved in facilitating the peaceful ending of conflict and retribution.

Peacebuilding: The efforts aimed at establishing lasting peace by addressing the root causes of conflict and fostering societal cooperation.

Religious extremism refers to the belief in and promotion of radical views or actions based on a strict interpretation of religious texts, often leading to violent or intolerant behavior against others. It is characterized by an unwavering commitment to a particular set of beliefs, typically accompanied by a rejection of opposing viewpoints and a desire to impose those beliefs on others, which can fuel conflicts and hinder peacemaking efforts in various contexts.

Fundamentalism: A movement within various religions that seeks to return to the foundational principles and texts of the faith, often resulting in strict adherence to religious doctrines.

Terrorism: The unlawful use of violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, in pursuit of political aims, which can be motivated by extremist religious beliefs.

Radicalization: The process through which individuals adopt extremist views or beliefs, often leading them to support or engage in acts of violence in the name of their faith.

Interfaith dialogue refers to the constructive interaction and communication between individuals or groups from different religious traditions aimed at fostering understanding, respect, and cooperation. This practice seeks to address misunderstandings and conflicts that can arise from religious differences, promoting peace and shared values in a diverse world.

Religious Pluralism: The acceptance and coexistence of multiple religious beliefs within a society, acknowledging the diversity of religious experiences and perspectives.

Ecumenism: A movement aimed at promoting unity among different Christian denominations, often seen as a form of interfaith dialogue focused specifically on Christianity.

Conflict Resolution: Strategies and processes aimed at resolving disputes and conflicts through peaceful means, which can be applied in the context of interfaith tensions.

Fundamentalism is a strict adherence to specific theological doctrines, typically in reaction to modernist interpretations of religious texts, and it often emphasizes the literal interpretation of sacred scriptures. This term is widely associated with movements within various religions that seek to return to foundational beliefs and practices, often in response to perceived threats from secularism or liberal ideologies. Fundamentalism can lead to increased tensions and conflicts within societies, especially when differing interpretations of faith clash.

Extremism: Extremism refers to the holding of extreme political or religious views that may advocate for violence or radical actions to achieve ideological goals.

Secularism: Secularism is the principle of separating religion from civic affairs and government, often viewed as a challenge by fundamentalist movements.

Religious Revivalism: Religious revivalism is a movement aimed at reawakening and revitalizing a particular faith, often characterized by a return to traditional beliefs and practices.

Jihads refer to the Islamic concept of struggle or striving in the way of Allah, which can manifest in various forms, including spiritual, personal, and military efforts. While often associated with holy war against non-Muslims, jihads can also represent a personal inner struggle for self-improvement and ethical living. Understanding the multiple dimensions of jihads is crucial in discussing their role in global conflicts and peacemaking efforts.

Shahada: The Islamic declaration of faith, stating that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is his prophet, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.

Fatwa: A legal opinion or decree issued by an Islamic scholar, often addressing specific issues within Islamic law, including the justification of jihad.

Terrorism: The unlawful use of violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, often to achieve political aims; some extremist groups have misinterpreted jihad as a justification for terrorism.

Sectarian violence refers to violent conflict between different religious or sectarian groups, often driven by deep-rooted historical, social, and political tensions. This type of violence typically manifests in the form of attacks, riots, or armed confrontations, highlighting the impact of religious identity on conflict dynamics. It can escalate into broader conflicts and lead to significant human suffering and societal division.

Religious extremism: A belief system that justifies violence and radical actions in the name of religion, often targeting those seen as opposing one's faith.

Ethnic conflict: Disputes and violence between different ethnic groups, which may intersect with sectarian divides and further complicate the nature of the conflict.

Peacebuilding: Efforts aimed at preventing violence and fostering lasting peace through dialogue, reconciliation, and addressing root causes of conflict.

Sunni-Shia conflicts refer to the ongoing tensions and hostilities between Sunni and Shia Muslims, rooted in historical, political, and theological differences. These conflicts have played a significant role in shaping regional dynamics in the Middle East, often exacerbated by external influences and geopolitical interests, leading to violence, civil wars, and sectarian strife that impact global peace efforts.

Sectarianism: Sectarianism is the division of people into sects, often leading to conflict based on religious or ethnic identity, particularly prevalent in the context of Sunni and Shia divisions.

Caliphate: A caliphate is an Islamic state led by a caliph, who is considered a political and religious successor to the Prophet Muhammad; the legitimacy of leadership remains a contentious issue between Sunnis and Shias.

Jihad: Jihad refers to the struggle or effort in the path of God, which can take on various forms, including personal spiritual growth or armed struggle; differing interpretations contribute to Sunni-Shia tensions.

Islam is a monotheistic Abrahamic religion founded in the 7th century CE, based on the belief in one God (Allah) and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad as recorded in the Quran. It emphasizes submission to God's will, which is reflected in its core practices and teachings, influencing diverse cultures and societies globally.

Quran: The holy book of Islam, believed to be the literal word of God as revealed to Muhammad, serving as the primary source of guidance for Muslims.

Hadith: The recorded sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad, providing context and interpretation for Islamic teachings and practices.

Sharia: Islamic law derived from the Quran and Hadith, governing both personal conduct and community regulations within Islamic societies.

Religious persecution refers to the systematic mistreatment or oppression of individuals or groups based on their religious beliefs. This can take many forms, including discrimination, violence, imprisonment, or even genocide, and often stems from intolerance or fear of different faiths. The dynamics of religious persecution are closely tied to global conflicts and the efforts for peacemaking, as the roots of many disputes can often be traced back to religious differences and the subsequent violence that arises from them.

intolerance: The unwillingness to accept views, beliefs, or behaviors that differ from one's own, often leading to discrimination against those who hold different religious beliefs.

genocide: The deliberate and systematic extermination of a particular group of people, often based on their ethnicity, nationality, or religion.

religious freedom: The right of individuals to practice their religion without interference or oppression from the government or other entities.

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict refers to the ongoing struggle between Israelis and Palestinians over land, national identity, and political sovereignty in the region of historical Palestine. This conflict has deep roots in religious, cultural, and historical narratives and is marked by violence, political tension, and complex peace efforts, making it a significant example of how religion can play a role in global conflicts and peacemaking.

Zionism: A nationalist movement that emerged in the late 19th century advocating for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine.

Intifada: A Palestinian uprising against Israeli occupation, with two major uprisings occurring between 1987-1993 and 2000-2005.

Two-State Solution: A proposed solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that envisions an independent State of Palestine alongside the State of Israel.

The Northern Ireland Conflict, often referred to as 'The Troubles,' was a violent ethno-nationalist conflict that occurred in Northern Ireland from the late 1960s until 1998. It primarily involved tensions between the Protestant unionists, who wanted Northern Ireland to remain part of the United Kingdom, and the Catholic nationalists, who sought unification with the Republic of Ireland. The role of religion in this conflict played a significant part in shaping identities and affiliations, influencing not only the violence but also the peace processes that followed.

Unionism: A political ideology that advocates for Northern Ireland's continued status as part of the United Kingdom, typically associated with Protestant communities.

Nationalism: A political ideology that supports the unification of Northern Ireland with the Republic of Ireland, primarily linked to Catholic communities.

Good Friday Agreement: A major political development in 1998 that aimed to establish peace in Northern Ireland by addressing issues of governance, civil rights, and communal relations.

The Parliament of the World's Religions is a global interfaith organization that aims to foster dialogue and collaboration among various religious traditions to address global issues. Founded in 1893, it serves as a platform for representatives from different faiths to come together, share perspectives, and work towards peace and social justice. This gathering emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting diverse religious beliefs in the context of conflict resolution and social movements.

Interfaith Dialogue: A process where individuals or groups from different religious backgrounds engage in conversation to promote mutual understanding and respect.

Social Justice: The view that everyone deserves equal economic, political, and social rights and opportunities, often championed by various religious groups.

Global Citizenship: The idea that individuals belong to a worldwide community and are responsible for promoting justice and sustainability across national borders.

The World Council of Churches (WCC) is an international ecumenical organization founded in 1948 that promotes Christian unity and cooperation among different denominations. It plays a significant role in addressing global issues such as peace, justice, and human rights while advocating for reconciliation and dialogue among various faith communities, particularly in times of conflict.

Ecumenism: The movement aimed at promoting unity among Christian churches and fostering cooperation in various areas of faith and practice.

Interfaith Dialogue: Conversations and collaborative efforts between different religious traditions to promote understanding, tolerance, and peace.

Social Justice: The concept of ensuring fair treatment and equitable distribution of resources and opportunities across all segments of society, often emphasized in religious teachings.

Religious diplomacy refers to the practice of leveraging religious beliefs, institutions, and leaders to foster dialogue, promote peace, and resolve conflicts among different communities or nations. This form of diplomacy emphasizes the role of faith in international relations, utilizing the moral authority of religious figures and the shared values of faith traditions to build bridges between adversaries and encourage understanding.

Interfaith dialogue: A conversation between individuals or groups from different religious backgrounds aimed at fostering mutual understanding and respect.

Soft power: The ability to influence others through attraction and persuasion rather than coercion, often using cultural or ideological means.

Conflict resolution: The process of resolving a dispute or conflict by addressing the underlying issues and facilitating a peaceful outcome.

Pope Francis' diplomatic efforts refer to the initiatives and actions taken by the current Pope of the Roman Catholic Church to engage in dialogue and foster peace in global conflicts. His approach is marked by a commitment to interfaith dialogue, advocacy for social justice, and an emphasis on addressing humanitarian crises, which connects deeply with the challenges faced in peacemaking processes around the world.

Interfaith Dialogue: The conversation and engagement between different religious traditions aimed at fostering mutual understanding and respect.

Vatican Diplomacy: The unique diplomatic practices of the Vatican, which leverage moral authority and religious influence in international relations.

Social Justice: The pursuit of equitable distribution of resources, opportunities, and rights within society, often emphasized in Pope Francis' teachings.

Quaker Peace Initiatives refer to the efforts and programs established by the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) aimed at promoting peace, conflict resolution, and reconciliation. Rooted in the Quaker belief of inner light and the idea that all people are capable of goodness, these initiatives focus on nonviolent approaches to conflict, emphasizing dialogue and understanding among opposing parties. Quakers often engage in activism and provide support during conflicts, working to foster peace both locally and globally.

Nonviolence: A philosophy and strategy for social change that rejects the use of violence, advocating for peaceful methods such as protests, dialogue, and civil disobedience.

Conflict Resolution: The process of resolving a dispute or conflict by addressing the underlying issues and finding mutually acceptable solutions through negotiation and communication.

Social Justice: The concept of creating a society or institution that is based on principles of equality and solidarity, with a focus on human rights and equitable distribution of resources.

Faith-based peacemaking initiatives are efforts that leverage religious beliefs, values, and communities to promote peace and resolve conflicts. These initiatives often aim to address the underlying causes of violence and discord through dialogue, reconciliation, and community engagement, drawing on the moral authority of religious leaders and institutions to influence attitudes and behaviors.

Interfaith Dialogue: A collaborative effort among different religious groups to promote understanding, respect, and cooperation in addressing common issues.

Conflict Resolution: The process of resolving a dispute or conflict by addressing the underlying issues and fostering communication between the involved parties.

Social Justice: The pursuit of a fair and just society by addressing inequalities and advocating for the rights of marginalized groups, often driven by religious motivations.

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is an international humanitarian agency that provides assistance to impoverished and disadvantaged people in over 100 countries. Founded in 1943 by the U.S. Catholic Bishops, CRS embodies the Church's mission to help those in need, especially during global conflicts and crises, making it a vital player in peacemaking and social justice efforts.

Social Justice: A concept that advocates for the fair distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges within a society, often rooted in religious beliefs and values.

Humanitarian Aid: Assistance provided for humanitarian purposes, typically in response to crises, aiming to save lives and alleviate suffering among affected populations.

Peacebuilding: Efforts aimed at establishing lasting peace in areas affected by conflict, which may include reconciliation processes and support for social cohesion.

Islamic Relief Worldwide is a global humanitarian organization that provides relief and development assistance to vulnerable communities regardless of race, religion, or nationality. Founded in 1984, it operates with a mission to alleviate suffering and promote sustainable development while adhering to Islamic principles of charity and compassion. The organization plays a significant role in addressing global conflicts and peacemaking through its aid programs and community engagement.

Zakat: A form of almsgiving treated in Islam as a tax, and one of the Five Pillars, which obliges Muslims to give a portion of their wealth to those in need.

Humanitarian Aid: Assistance provided for humanitarian purposes, typically in response to humanitarian crises, including natural disasters and conflicts.

NGO (Non-Governmental Organization): A non-profit organization that operates independently of government influence, often focused on social, political, or environmental issues.

Quaker mediation in Nigeria refers to the conflict resolution efforts led by the Religious Society of Friends, known as Quakers, aimed at promoting peace and reconciliation in areas affected by violence and social strife. This approach emphasizes nonviolence, dialogue, and community engagement to address the root causes of conflict, fostering a culture of peace and mutual understanding among diverse groups.

Nonviolence: A philosophy and strategy for social change that rejects the use of physical violence, emphasizing peaceful methods to achieve goals.

Restorative Justice: An approach to justice that focuses on repairing the harm caused by criminal behavior through reconciliation between victims and offenders.

Conflict Resolution: The process of resolving a dispute or conflict through various methods, including negotiation, mediation, and diplomacy.

The Northern Ireland Peace Process refers to the series of negotiations and agreements aimed at resolving the conflict known as 'The Troubles,' which involved violent clashes between nationalists (mainly Catholic) who sought unification with the Republic of Ireland and unionists (mainly Protestant) who wanted to remain part of the United Kingdom. This process culminated in the Good Friday Agreement of 1998, which established a framework for political cooperation, disarmament, and the protection of rights, and is a significant example of how religious and ethnic identities can influence conflicts and peacemaking efforts.

Good Friday Agreement: A major political agreement signed in 1998 that established a devolved government in Northern Ireland and laid the groundwork for peace by addressing issues of governance, rights, and disarmament.

The Troubles: A violent conflict that took place in Northern Ireland from the late 1960s until the signing of the Good Friday Agreement, characterized by paramilitary violence, civil unrest, and significant loss of life.

Devolution: The transfer of power from a central government to regional or local governments, which in Northern Ireland allowed for a self-governing assembly after the peace process.

World Vision's peace-building programs are initiatives designed to promote reconciliation, conflict resolution, and sustainable peace in areas affected by violence and instability. These programs emphasize the importance of community involvement, interfaith dialogue, and collaboration among diverse groups to address the root causes of conflict and build lasting relationships.

Conflict Resolution: A method for resolving disputes and conflicts through negotiation and dialogue, often involving third-party mediation to facilitate understanding and agreement.

Interfaith Dialogue: Conversations and interactions between individuals or groups from different religious backgrounds aimed at fostering mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation.

Reconciliation: The process of restoring relationships and promoting healing between individuals or groups that have experienced conflict or violence.

The South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was established in 1995 to help heal the nation and address the atrocities committed during apartheid. It aimed to uncover the truth about human rights violations, promote national unity, and facilitate reconciliation among the divided communities of South Africa. The TRC is a crucial example of how processes of truth-telling and acknowledgment can contribute to healing and peacebuilding in post-conflict societies.

Apartheid: A system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination enforced by the South African government from 1948 to the early 1990s.

Restorative Justice: An approach to justice that focuses on repairing the harm caused by criminal behavior through inclusive processes that involve victims, offenders, and the community.

Nelson Mandela: The first black president of South Africa and a key figure in the anti-apartheid movement, whose leadership was instrumental in the establishment of the TRC.

The Rwandan Gacaca Courts were community-based justice systems established after the 1994 Rwandan Genocide to promote healing and reconciliation among the population. These courts aimed to address the overwhelming number of genocide-related cases and restore trust within communities by allowing victims and perpetrators to engage in dialogue and reach restorative outcomes.

Genocide: The intentional action to destroy a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group, often resulting in mass killings and severe human rights violations.

Transitional Justice: A set of judicial and non-judicial measures implemented by countries to redress legacies of human rights abuses and promote accountability and reconciliation.

Restorative Justice: An approach to justice that focuses on repairing the harm caused by criminal behavior through processes involving victims, offenders, and the community.

Religious tolerance is the acceptance of different religious beliefs and practices, allowing individuals to coexist peacefully regardless of their faith. This concept is essential for promoting understanding and harmony among diverse religious groups, especially in contexts where conflicts arise due to differing beliefs. It fosters dialogue and respect, creating a foundation for peaceful coexistence and reducing tensions that can lead to conflict.

Interfaith Dialogue: A constructive conversation between individuals or groups from different religious backgrounds aimed at fostering mutual understanding and respect.

Secularism: The principle of separating religion from political and public life, promoting a neutral stance towards all religions by the state.

Pluralism: A social framework that recognizes and values the diversity of religious beliefs and practices within a society.

The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) is an initiative launched in 2005 aimed at fostering intercultural dialogue and understanding among different cultures and religions to mitigate conflict. The UNAOC seeks to promote a collaborative framework for addressing the cultural and religious dimensions of global conflicts, emphasizing the need for dialogue as a means to combat extremism and foster peaceful coexistence.

Intercultural Dialogue: A process of communication and exchange between individuals from different cultural backgrounds, aimed at promoting understanding and respect.

Cultural Diplomacy: The use of cultural engagement and exchange to strengthen international relations and improve mutual understanding between countries.

Conflict Resolution: The methods and processes involved in facilitating the peaceful ending of conflict and retribution, often through negotiation and dialogue.

An interfaith alliance is a collaborative partnership among individuals and organizations from different religious traditions, working together to promote understanding, respect, and cooperation in addressing social issues and conflicts. These alliances often aim to bridge divides between religions and foster peace by highlighting shared values and common goals, especially in contexts where religion can both divide and unite communities.

Ecumenism: The movement aimed at promoting unity among Christian denominations and fostering better relationships among different faiths.

Dialogue: A process of open communication between individuals or groups from different religious backgrounds aimed at fostering mutual understanding.

Social Justice: The pursuit of a fair and just society by addressing issues such as poverty, discrimination, and inequality, often supported by various faith-based organizations.