Peace and Conflict Transformation Instruments in Islam 1

The question of peace and conflict transformation instruments and the international implementation of such instruments are increasingly subject of discussion in the face of current world events. The situation in Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Libya, Sudan, Somalia, Palestine, Pakistan, Afghanistan and other Muslim countries, the growing concerns about what we call Islamic extremism, the impact of ISIS and the use of all type of violence in the name of Islam to solve conflicts affecting Muslim societies have brought Muslims and the way they transform their conflicts to the forefront of the political debate in the world.    

We know that the transformation of conflicts is the path to peace between societies; however we cannot achieve peace in Muslims societies without understanding the instruments they use to transform their conflicts within their societies and between them and others. Without knowledge, fundamentalists can easily depict a violent image about Islam threatening the stability and security of entire communities. For this reason, and in order to overcome our common challenges we have no choice but to learn more about Muslim societies and motivate them to know and use their own conflict transformation instruments. «By implementing Western strategies in an Islamic context without any modification or adaptation procedures, scholars and policymakers commit the mistake of imposing an alien set of beliefs» (Abu-Nimer, 2001: 134).

It is especially important to point out that Muslims and Westerners share the idea that conflict is not a threat but rather an opportunity to change and to increase understanding of oneself, of others and nature. Simultaneously, they share the same conflict transformation instruments such as communication (Attawāsul), dialogue (Al-hiwār), mediation (Al-wasāta), arbitration (Attahkīm) and reconciliation (Ṣulh). These instruments and others such as compassion (Arrahma), amnesty (Al-ʿafw), pacts (Al-ʿahd), recognitions (Al-iʿtirāf), empowerment (Attamkīn), consultation (Shura) and the use of feeling (Al-ʼahāsīs), are promoted by Islamic law (Sharīʿa) and are practiced in every traditional Islamic society. Consequently, the basis of Islamic conflict transformation instruments is in harmony with Western instruments and can be effective not only on the local level but also between Muslim and Western societies.

Dr. Said Bahajin,

Researcher at UNESCO Chair of Philosophy for Peace, Jaume I University, Castellón, Spain.