Fourteenth International Conference on Religion & Spirituality in Society

Abstract

The paper looks at Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE) interventions in Kenya and Indonesia using Freedom of Religion or Belief (FORB) projects led by the JISRA consortium. JISRA projects in Kenya envision peaceful coexistence via the lens of freedom of religion or belief interventions. The following research questions shape the study: How do we view and understand freedom of religion or belief (FORB) initiatives in the developing global South? How do we situate FORB within projects related to preventing and countering violent extremism in Kenya and Indonesia? The role of religion is complex, and understanding the nuanced role of religion in conflict, violence, and (post-conflict) social transformation processes requires empirical evidence to situate local developmental projects in their respective countries. The study is based on postdoctoral research conducted for the Joint Initiative for Strategic Religion Action (JISRA) project “Reimagining Religion, Security, and Social Transformation.” The analysis highlights the complex, nuanced role of religion in PCVE efforts while strengthening efforts on FORB in Kenya and Indonesia.