Springer Engaging in Faith-Based Mediation of Violent Conflicts: A Three-Component Theory Developed Through Cross-Religious Comparison (Contributions to International Relations)

This book offers the first comprehensive theory of how and why faith-based actors become involved in the mediation of violent intrastate conflicts. While religious actors have played important roles in peace processes across the globe throughout history, comparatively little attention has been paid to the crucial question of how mediation initiatives emerge and gain acceptance among the parties in a conflict. Addressing this gap, the book develops a three-component theory of faith-based mediation initiation that highlights the interplay of structural conflict conditions, mediator-specific capacities, and state authorisation. Drawing on a structured comparative analysis of Christian, Islamic and Buddhist mediation efforts in Mozambique, southern Thailand and Myanmar, it demonstrates how their moral authority, role interpretation authority, and organisational reach enable faith-based actors to serve as credible intermediaries, particularly where secular mediation channels are constrained. By moving beyond single-case and single-religion perspectives, the book provides new insights into the relationship between religion, political access and conflict resolution, making it essential reading for scholars and practitioners in the areas of peace and conflict studies, international relations, religion and politics, mediation, and diplomacy.