Diversity is a 21st-century reality, as people and faiths are intermixing as never before. Fear of the religious “other” leads to divisions, hostility, instability and violence impacting people and places. Consequently, it is essential to recognize how sacred spaces can also serve as powerful catalysts for peace and understanding rather than focal points for conflict. While the news often emphasizes violence and destruction, there are inspiring examples of sacred sites fostering inclusion and dialogue.

Type: Analysis

Religion

Since 2014, Ukraine has been trying to repel escalating Russian aggression. But while Russia is a much larger country, with far more weaponry and manpower, their efforts to undermine Ukrainian state sovereignty extend far beyond armed combat. The Kremlin has used its close ties to the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) to weaponize religion in favor of Russian interests.

Type: Analysis

Conflict Analysis & Prevention;  Religion

Looking out from the town hall in downtown Sarajevo, you’d be hard pressed to find evidence of the nearly four-year-long siege that devastated the city during the Bosnian War. The surrounding area is clean and filled with new and repaired buildings — even the town hall itself is a restoration of the pre-war library that once occupied the space. 

Type: Analysis

Democracy & Governance;  Peace Processes;  Religion

The Taliban’s new vice and virtue law, which places sweeping restrictions on women’s dress, mobility and public presence, is facing pushback from Afghan religious scholars, civil society, the wider Muslim community and even the Taliban themselves.

Type: Analysis

Gender;  Human Rights;  Religion