State of Play: Religious Freedom and Security, Extremism, and Terrorism

This article examines the landscape of and complex relationship between religious freedom, security, extremism, and terrorism. In a global context of rising authoritarianism, populism, and religious repression, the paper surveys key datasets, debates, empirical findings, and conceptual tensions in the field. Highlighting how religious freedom can both mitigate and be undermined by security challenges, the article identifies common misconceptions, gaps in research, and emerging threats, including mutual radicalization and the politicization of religion. It concludes with practical recommendations for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners, urging interdisciplinary collaboration to better understand religion’s evolving role in global peace and conflict dynamics.