RELIGIOUS PLURALISM AND PEACEBUILDING: CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS IN A MULTI-FAITH SOCIETY

Abstract

Religious pluralism, defined as the coexistence of diverse faith traditions within a shared social and political space, presents both formidable challenges and transformative prospects for peacebuilding in contemporary multi-faith societies. This study examines the complex intersections between religious diversity and the pursuit of sustainable peace, focusing on how different religious communities can either exacerbate or mitigate socio-political tensions. Drawing on an integrative review of theoretical frameworks, including John Rawls's theory of overlapping consensus, Johan Galtung's structural peace model, and Hans Küng's global ethic paradigm, alongside qualitative case study data drawn from Nigeria, India, and the United Kingdom, this paper argues that religious pluralism, when managed through inclusive governance structures, interfaith dialogue mechanisms, and shared civic values, can serve as a powerful catalyst for peacebuilding rather than a source of conflict. This study identifies five principal challenges: theological exclusivism, political instrumentalization of religion, socioeconomic marginalization along religious lines, weak institutional frameworks for interfaith engagement, and the proliferation of radical religious ideologies. Conversely, it highlights prospects rooted in shared ethical principles across traditions, the role of religious leaders as peace brokers, community-based reconciliation programs, and policy frameworks that affirm pluralism without imposing secularist uniformity. The findings contribute to both the academic discourse on religion and peacebuilding and to practical policy formation in plural societies. Recommendations are offered for governments, religious organizations, civil society, and international bodies seeking to harness religious diversity for constructive social cohesion.x