Moving Trends in Peace and Conflict Studies: The Nexus between Religion and Peace Building

Abstract

In moving abreast with the global trends in the field of peace and conflict resolution, religious
practitioners are found at every level of the peace-building processes. The role of religion in
the modern era cannot be underestimated since it has remained a resilient force in society.
Religion transcends geographical boundaries that can be used to reach a majority of its
followers, it teaches peace and love, even when the condition seems horrendous. The
motivational factor for writing this paper emanated from the realization of the continuous
surge in religious movements linked with acts of extremism and the many series of conflicts.
This is a qualitative study based on the analysis of the available literature on religion and
peace building. The overarching question was: What is the nexus between religion and peace
building? It was found out that despite religious extremism, including the extremism that courts
war and conflict, religion remains key in peace-building. We recommend the need for
tolerance, religious pluralism and strong partnership between religion and peace-building
initiatives.