Peacebuilding from a religious perspective

Abstract

This study is exploring the role of religion in peacebuilding. Religion is not one of the
institutions of modernity, but it has returned as a significant force in modern societies as one of
the outcomes of the post-cold war. Religion has become more important due to its role in defining
the ideology to identity. Terrorism is the outcome of extremism which is a very sensitive issue
to global security. Massacre of millions on one pretext to another is the result of terror, which
is the outcome of extremist ideologies. The comprehensive solution to curb this phenomenon is
peacebuilding. Peacebuilding is as old as war. From the times of pre-modern history, many people
participated in wars, and even more were involved in peacebuilding. Peace can be considered the
highest goal achievable by any community. The term peace is like other human ideals such as
justice and happiness. One must use various means to achieve peace. Among these, the teachings
of world religions are some of the most significant.