Tackling Religious Extremism

Religious extremism has become a major threat to the social order as we know it. It represents a threat to individuals and to national security. Organised religion has been used as a platform for manipulating people and spreading incendiary and exploitative doctrines. Religious worship should be about restoring faith and bringing meaning to people's lives. Not about making money and providing an outlet for megalomania. The roots of the ravages of religious extremism go very deep. Various wars and international disputes have further entrenched religious differences around the world. Global poverty and the recent global recession has further served to make people feel increasingly insecure and vulnerable. 

Combating the dangers of extremist religious doctrine requires a response on a number of different levels. Individuals need to take responsibility for using religion as a force for good. Communities need to invest in fostering religious harmony amongst disparate groups. And governments have a duty to respect and promote the value of differing faiths. Religion should not be used to compromise the sovereignty and security of other countries. 

There has been a long history of religious differences and dealing with the divisions that have set in will take time. However, the commitment to improving things needs to be made, and seen to be made now. An environment of trust needs to be fostered in order for a more harmonious society to develop. 

Here is my five point plan for getting things started:

1. Address social inequality. Reduce government endorsement of privilege. Abolish government bestowed titles (not including awards).

2. Link tax benefits to proactive recruitment and retention of minorities. Require all companies applying for tax breaks to contribute to a social capital fund.

3. Make it mandatory for all religious organisations wishing to retain public charitable status to undergo annual audits and publish an annual report and accounts publicly. 

4. Increase emphasis on human rights in foreign policy. Stop trading off human rights violations and government corruption for economic gain. 

5. Establish a clear legislative and judicial process for tackling religious extremism. Knee jerk reactions only further the atmosphere of distrust and disenfranchisement. 

There is no quick fix to solving the problem but there are things that can be done to address it. All that is required are sincerity and commitment.