Religion, conflict prevention and countering radicalisation in the Western Balkans

On 15 October, we convened a closed-door seminar in Sarajevo on Religion, conflict prevention and countering radicalisation in the Western Balkans. The seminar brought together experts, including journalists and academics from think tanks, universities, and media organisations across the Western Balkans. The roundtable was moderated by Bojana Zorić, with interventions from:

• Aurelie Valtat (EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina & EU Special Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina)
• Alexandris Constantinos (EEAS)
• Valery Perry (Democratization Policy Council)
• Samet Shabani (Horizon Civitas)
• Skender Bruçaj (Bedër University)
• Emina Kapetanović (EU Knowledge Hub on Prevention of Radicalisation), and
• Mirza Buljubašić (University of Sarajevo).

Societies in the Western Balkans are vulnerable to ethno-nationalist and religious radicalisation. The root causes of radicalisation stem from historical factors and current domestic socio-political and socio-economic challenges, with societies facing political isolation and ethnic and confessional segregation. Radicalisation in the region extends beyond the religious domain. Other ultranationalist movements, including radical right-wing groups have not received enough attention. Right-wing parties have been successful in voicing and promoting their values within the EU, helping to mainstream what was previously considered extreme. These narratives are difficult to track as they tread a fine line between what is acceptable and what is not.

Societies are faced with political isolation and ethnic and confessional segregation, and religious misinterpretations often polarise society, fostering an Us vs.Them narrative that deepens divisions. Faith leaders play a pivotal role; they can either promote social cohesion or intensify fragmentation. Leveraging the influence of faith-based communities to promote unity and tolerance can help mitigate societal polarisation and address the underlying causes of conflict.

Religious misinterpretations that lead to conflicts among religious communities cannot be combatted through small activities but rather through systemic and institutionalised approach. To strengthen interfaith dialogue, several strategies can be pursued. First, integrating interfaith dialogue into religious education can foster future leaders who are independent from foreign influence. Promoting religious literacy in schools helps counter radical narratives. Religious communities should engage in broader societal discussions, such as human rights, green agenda and alike rather than being limited to P/CVE issues. Trust between secular and religious actors must be improved, and the international community should invest in religious diplomacy. Short-term interfaith programs need broader support for sustainability, and partnerships with local actors should be reassessed to ensure genuine local involvement in initiatives.