Conceptualising Nonviolence in Contemporary Islamic Contexts

Objective

"The NONVIOLENTISLAM project aims to map and analyse discursive practices related to Islamic foundational texts as articulated by two influential Muslim theologians and advocates of nonviolence: Jawdat Saʿid (Sunni) and Muhammad al-Shirazi (Shia). By examining their engagement with both classical and contemporary sources, the project places their thought in dialogue in order to investigate how a normative Islamic tradition of nonviolence has been articulated and consolidated over the last decades. The central hypothesis is that this emerging tradition should be understood as a historical and discursive product within the broader framework of modern pacifism and nonviolence, rather than as an intrinsic or permanent feature of Islam. The project’s objectives are threefold: (1) to advance scholarly knowledge through peer-reviewed publications and academic events; (2) to foster inter-sectarian dialogue by contrasting Sunni and Shia approaches to nonviolence; (3) to engage broader audiences through dissemination and outreach activities. Outputs include two refereed journal articles; the organisation of an international conference and a dedicated panel at another international venue; two public lectures; and one academic seminar. In addition, dissemination will be supported by an online platform presenting nonviolent interpretations alongside Islam’s foundational texts, and by the exhibition *“The First 150 Years of Islamic Pacifism and Nonviolence”*, organised in collaboration with a Muslim youth association. Further outreach will include three articles aimed at the general public and one interview for a European podcast. The project aligns with the Council of Europe Charter on Education for Democratic Citizenship and Human Rights Education, and with the UN Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goal Target 4.7: “to ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including promotion of a culture of peace and nonviolence."""