Violence Justified? Buddhism, Ethnicity and Religious Conflict in Asia

Dear Colleagues,

Violence has increasingly drawn negative attention to facets of Buddhism. Conflicts in Buddhist societies such as Myanmar, where Rohingya Muslims are allegedly targeted by some Buddhists and military point out the urgent need of more focused research on Buddhist relations with ethnic and religious minorities. As media frequently reports, violence against minorities has increased rapidly in several Buddhist societies. Some conflicts and violence appear to be related to contested claims on sacred sites; some others are based on mundane issues such as access to economic resources and agricultural land; misconceptions based on traditional myths and prejudices often fueled with fear of global security issues also play significant roles in giving birth to ethnic and religious conflicts. This special volume plans to explore the role of Buddhist ideas, institutions, agencies and policies both in preventing conflict, violence and war as well as cultivating a culture of respect and compassion towards ethnic and religious minorities. Specific academic contributions from any disciplinary perspective are welcome from the following geographical regions where Buddhism remain to be either the majority or minority religion: Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Tibet, Bangladesh, Japan, Korea, China, Taiwan, Singapore, Bhutan, Nepal and India.

Prof. Dr. Mahinda Deegalle
Guest Editor

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• Ethnicity
• Religious Conflict
• Justifications of Violence
• War
• Minority Rights
• Respecting Religious Freedom
• Buddhism
• South and Southeast Asia
• East Asia
• Self-defence
• Buddhist Societies
• Justice and Good Governance
• Pluralism
• State Religion
• Stateless Persons
• Buddha Sasana
• Militarism and Buddhism
• Religious Persecution
• Buddhism and Refugees
• Buddhism and Displaced Persons
• Buddhism and Humanitarian Aid