Religion is a significant factor in many ethnic conflicts. Radical Islam
is usually one of the protagonists, either in conflict with another
faith or with moderate secular or pro-Western Muslim governments.
Serious violations of the rights of religious minorities are still a frequent occurance in the world of the 21st century. After the attacks of 9/11, the „war on terror“ rhetoric has been used by governments of every political hue as a pretext to repress religious communities. Others have faced violent backlash, being unjustly accused of siding with belligerents. In Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Latin America, land seizures and armed conflict have forced minorities and indigenous peoples away from locations associated with ther religious beliefs.Group International offers a comprehensive overview of the situation faced by minorities in a world increasingly divided along religious lines. Available at (on the right side download full text in PDF):
Hotspots, that attract our attention, where religion is a significant factor:
Ethiopia - A Horn of Africa nation is predominantly comprised of Orthodox Christians and a large minority of Muslims which faces increasing deterioration of religious freedoms:
Nigeria - The situation is particularly serious in the city of Jos, which has
experienced the most serious ethno-religious clashes in Nigerian
history: Is Nigeria on the brink of a religious civil war?
Indonesia - " Religious-based violence has been a growing concern among Indonesians of
all walks of life over the past few years. That concern was confirmed
by the latest report by Human Rights Watch, which highlighted the issue
as a major threat to social stability in the country." Available at:
here + Human Rights Watch Report World Report 2012: Indonesia
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