The Role of Islam in Establishing Global and International Peace: A Research and Analytical Review in the Light of Qur’anic Teachings

Abstract

The establishment of global and international peace is one of the most significant humanitarian, social, and global challenges of the contemporary era. Scientific and technological advancements, the expansion of communication networks, and the growing economic and political relations among nations have brought the world closer together. As a result of this interdependence, an armed conflict, religious tension, economic exploitation, or political instability arising in one region can affect the entire world. The existence of nuclear and other modern weapons of mass destruction, terrorism, racial and religious prejudices, violations of human rights, and the unlawful appropriation of resources has further intensified the need for global peace. Under these circumstances, there is a growing need for a comprehensive system of thought that provides humanity with the principles of justice, equality, tolerance, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. The Qur’anic teachings of Islam offer significant guidance in this regard.The Holy Qur’an teaches humanity the values of peace, reconciliation, justice, and mutual cooperation. Allah Almighty declares, “Reconciliation is best” (Surah al-Nisa, 4:128). Similarly, while condemning corruption and disorder, the Qur’an states, “And Allah does not like corruption” (Surah al-Baqarah, 2:205). These teachings demonstrate that, from an Islamic perspective, the establishment of peace does not merely mean avoiding war; rather, it also entails creating a just social and international environment in which human life, property, dignity, and fundamental rights are protected. By emphasizing justice, benevolence, the fulfillment of covenants, the fair resolution of disputes, and respect for human diversity, the Holy Qur’an provides an ethical foundation for international relations.The importance of this topic lies in its examination of the fundamental principles of global peace, the causes of war and conflict, and possible measures for their prevention and resolution in the light of Qur’anic teachings. This research has examined how factors such as religious and racial prejudices, economic inequality, political oppression, and the unlawful domination of resources affect global peace, as well as the ethical, legal, and social principles that the Qur’an presents in response to these challenges. Furthermore, the study has sought to explain how Islamic teachings can be understood in the context of contemporary international relations, interfaith dialogue, the peaceful resolution of conflicts, and the protection of human rights.The issue of global peace has become one of the most pressing concerns of the modern era, affecting all of humanity. This is particularly true because the weapons of mass destruction developed by major world powers possess the capacity to devastate the Earth on an unprecedented scale. The situation becomes even more alarming when certain influential figures and intellectuals in powerful countries issue warnings about an impending global clash between nations and civilizations. Should such a confrontation occur, it could destroy the progress, prosperity, knowledge, and intellectual achievements that humanity has accumulated through centuries of effort. Therefore, the need for global peace today is arguably greater than ever before.The significance of this research lies in its scholarly and analytical examination of the fundamental principles of global peace, the causes of international conflicts, and the possible means of addressing them in the light of Qur’anic teachings. It investigates how religious and racial prejudices, economic disparities, political oppression, and the illegitimate control of resources undermine international peace, and identifies the ethical, legal, and social principles that the Holy Qur’an offers to counter these challenges. Moreover, the study seeks to clarify how Islamic teachings may be interpreted and applied within the framework of contemporary international relations, interfaith dialogue, peaceful conflict resolution, and the protection of human rights.

Keyword: Global Peace, International Relations, Qur’anic Teachings, Islamic Principles, Justice, Peaceful Coexistence, Conflict Resolution, Human Rights