As one looks to the future, the challenges of preventing or resolving conflict are likely to prove even more formidable than they have in the past. The problems posed by today's ethnic, tribal and religious hostilities, have shown themselves to be peculiarly resistant to diplomatic compromise. If the goal of achieving peace in meaningful terms is to prove any less elusive, different approaches will be required; approaches that key to deep-rooted human relationships rather than state-centered philosophies. Far greater insight into the human dimensions of conflict and its resolution will be required on the part of foreign policy practitioners and religious leaders than has been demonstrated to date. Toward this end and as noted in Religion, the Missing Dimension of Statecraft, the following are some of the attributes that the church and/or religious leaders (including laity) can sometimes bring to bear in promoting peace:

1. A well-established and pervasive influence in the community.

2. Cultural insights and an unmatched awareness and knowledge of local traditions.

3. An active force for change within the community and an ability to influence the attitudes and actions of political leaders.

4. An alternative forum for political expression and, as the institutional conscience of society, an apolitical legitimacy for speaking out on issues.

5. An established record for humanitarian care and concern.

6. A respected set of values, including a reputation for trustworthiness.

7. An inherent ability to address negative stereotypes and to rehumanize relationships.

8. Unique leverage for promoting reconciliation between conflicting parties.

9. Persistence in the face of adversity (stemming from working out of a sense of calling).

10. A capability for mobilizing community, national, and international support for a peace process.

11. An ability to follow through locally in the wake of a political settlement and to address future disagreements as they may arise.

Building on the above, there are three compelling reasons why religious leaders should be included in any peace process relating to a conflict in which religion is a significant factor.

1. They are better equipped than their political counterparts to deal with religious issues.

2. They bring a moral authority to the deliberations that, under the right circumstances, can inspire participants to rise above themselves in overcoming the secular obstacles to peace.

3. Religious leaders should feel a degree of ownership in whatever political settlement emerges because of their unrivalled influence at the grass-roots level. Without grass-roots support, the settlement is unlikely to last.

In today's identity-based conflicts, these are important attributes that policymakers and diplomats would be well-advised to recognize and incorporate as appropriate in their peacemaking efforts.

"War is a stern teacher."
Thucydides