Religion, Conflict and Peacebuilding: An Introductory Programming Guide

Religion is often viewed as a motive for conflict and has emerged as a key component in many current and past conflicts. However, religion does not always drive violence; it is also an integral factor in the peacebuilding and reconciliation process. As a main mobilizing force in many societies, proper engagement of religion and its leaders is crucial. Yet, many at USAID and elsewhere in the development community view religion with uncertainty, viewing it as a sensitive and possibly dangerous topic.

The aim of this Toolkit is to help lower the discomfort of development professionals in making the analytical and programmatic connections between conflict, religion and peacebuilding.