Essay on The Role of Religion in Foreign Policy - 1019 Words

The Role of Religion in Foreign Policy In order to best understand the role of religion in foreign policy, one needs to acknowledge that religion does play a role in foreign policy. However, the role religion plays in international relations is often overlooked. This omission of such an important factor that influences international politics in so many ways and on so many levels is detrimental and should be addressed (Fox, 2001:73). Religion influences international politics in varied ways. The phenomenal role of religion in foreign policy is not new or in dispute. Fox purports that religion, in more ways than one, is tied to other issues that distinctly influence international politics. There is a†¦show more content†¦Moreover, the use of religion as a source of public legitimacy is highlighted by the influence of moral appeals by religious leaders such as the Pope and Dalai Lama (Fox, 2001:53). Religion is a part of people’s worldviews and influences their perception of events and their reaction to ev ents. Belief systems can influence the outlook and behaviour of policymakers. According to Jonathon Fox, religion influences international politics in three ways (Fox, 2001: 59). First, foreign policies are influenced by the religious views and beliefs of policymakers and their constituents. In the case of the Arab-Israeli conflict, both Israeli and Arab leaders have had to weigh very carefully what their populations would accept when making agreements. The coalition government of Israel under Ahud Barack was seen as willing to make too many concessions to the Palestinians. Hence he was replaced with Ariel Sharon who was viewed as more hard-line. Second, religion is a source of legitimacy for both supporting and criticizing government behaviour locally and internationally. 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