Analysis of the Monomodel, Multimodel, and Intermodel Interdependence of Religions in the Process of Interreligious Dialogue in Georgia

In the last decade, there has been a great interest in the extent to which religion can play a positive role in conflict settlement and peacebuilding. The peaceful coexistence of religions is of particular importance, especially if we consider that it is one of the main determining factors of the individual and collective identities of the opposing sides. Religious norms and values are central aspects of cultural identity. Other values, such as cultural values, can also lead people to both conflict and reconciliation. In the era of globalization, the development of intercultural competencies and the promotion of intercultural and interreligious dialogue are considered as among the most important prerequisites for a meaningful and harmonious coexistence in the modern world. The main paradigm of our age is the intense relationship between different groups and individuals. The contact between different cultures and religions is growing, and the ties between different groups are deepening. Today, it is almost impossible to see a homogeneous society, one whose members are of the same culture and profess the same religion. It is a paradox that as much as globalization promotes financial and economic integration, it also promotes cultural and social disintegration, seeing people inventing new boundaries in order to distinguish themselves, separate and distance themselves from carriers of different cultures, whose proximity causes them discomfort. The purpose of the study is to present existing models of inter-religious dialogue and cooperation between representatives of different religions in Georgian society, and to discuss their projections of inter-religious attitude. Religious differences were often seen as obstacles to conflict resolution and peacebuilding. All religions preach peace, but religion is often also a source that legitimizes hatred and violence. The peaceful coexistence of religions is of particular importance, considering that it is one of the main determining factors of the individual and collective identity of the conflicting parties. We can distinguish three models of interdependence of religions: Monomodel, Multimodel, and Intermodel. It is interesting to identify which models are possible in Georgia, and in what form these models are presented in the discourses of secular and clerical persons.