International Challenges & Religious Diplomacy, (led by Dr Maïa-Oumeïma Hamrouni)

Project summary

Interdependencies flowing from an ever-greater globalization are giving rise to States’ identity impulses and self-withdrawal. International relations are also subject to conflicting tensions and diplomacy is forced to reform by finding new formats to reconcile State interests and preserve international peace and security. In this context, the religious phenomenon is omnipresent and dual. This results in a source of destabilization of inter-state relations or regions that needs to be monitored and analyzed. A new field of study is emerging: “theo-geopolitics”. It is equally a source of pacification of conflicts, or at least helps bring communities together. As such, it becomes a tool for States’ foreign policies.
Religious diplomacy can facilitate dialogue when exchanges seem impossible. It can promote tolerance when the toughest positions seem frozen. The discourse conveyed by religious envoys can be better understood and accepted by the governments because it appears distant from political intrigues and is adorned with wisdom or spirituality. It can also be understood by the governed and supported by them. Religious diplomacy is thus based on dialogue, prevention and consultation with many actors. One should not overlook that it is mostly strategy.

Project dates

2020-ongoing

Partnerships

Emirates Diplomatic Academy (EDA)

Funding

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi
Emirates Diplomatic Academy