Journal of Christian Religious Studies

Religious identity has become a central driver of contemporary armed conflicts, yet religious institutions and actors also possess unique resources for peace. This article examines interfaith dialogue and mediation as formal peacebuilding tools, analyzing their theoretical foundations, institutional mechanisms, empirical outcomes, and policy implications. Drawing on conflict transformation theory and case evidence from Nigeria a nation deeply divided along Christian-Muslim lines the article demonstrates that structured interfaith engagement can prevent violence, build social cohesion, and contribute to sustainable peace. The analysis synthesizes evidence from the Interfaith Dialogue Forum for Peace, the Interfaith Mediation Centre, and the Joint Initiative for Strategic Religious Action. Findings indicate that interfaith peacebuilding reduces violence in target communities, enhances early warning capabilities, and transforms intercommunal relationships when properly institutionalized. However, challenges including political manipulation, theological resistance, and resource constraints persist. The article concludes with recommendations for integrating interfaith peacebuilding into national security architectures.

Open Full Text (PDF)