Expert reflects on Islamic, UN approach to conflict resolution
Arecent guest lecture hosted by the College of Islamic Studies (CIS) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) provided an opportunity to compare conflict resolution in Islam with the approach taken by the United Nations (UN) and its bodies.
As an expert on conflict resolution and dialogue for peace, Dr Mohamed Abu-Nimer, professor at the School of International Service, and director of the Peacebuilding and Development Institute at the American University, Washington, DC, addressed graduate students during a class on ‘Islam, Conflict Transformation and Peacebuilding’.
The core course is part of the two-year MA in Islam and Global Affairs (IGA) programme at CIS.
Dr Abu-Nimer shared a broad perspective during his talk. Much of his work has focused on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the application of conflict resolution models in Muslim communities. He has conducted inter-religious conflict resolution training in conflict areas around the world and is the co-founder and coeditor of the Journal of Peacebuilding and Development.
His lecture framed a discussion on how religion has to be considered as part of the dynamic shaping conflict and peace, even in non-religious conflicts. During the exchange, students were exposed to trends related to global peace and security today, and the role of the dialogue process concerning deep-rooted conflict dynamics.
Dr Mustafa Osman Elamin, the host of the lecture and faculty member at CIS, brings with him extensive experience as former foreign minister and minister of investment of Sudan. Dr Elamin said, “Non-violent resolution of internal conflicts remains a key challenge for the international community. As such, the event has been a welcome opportunity for our students in the Islam and Global Affairs programme to be part of a critical intellectual debate that puts Islam in a global context, and that has helped us all to understand its role in the frontlines of conflict resolution. Our appreciation goes to Dr Abu-Nimer for expanding on his experiences and offering his perspective to enhance the learning of our future leaders and peacemakers.”