RELIGIOUS LEADERS & VIOLENT EXTREMISM POLICY BRIEF NO. 1: Harnessing religious leadership to counter violent extremism and build religious tolerance in Nigeria and Kenya

Summary

This policy brief, published by Utrecht University in collaboration with JISRA and supported by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, examines the critical role of religious leaders in countering violent extremism (VE) in Nigeria and Kenya. Based on 151 interviews, the research reveals that VE is driven by a complex mix of political, social, and religious grievances, including the manipulation of sacred texts, corruption, and youth unemployment. Despite these challenges, imams, pastors, and female faith leaders actively counter extremist narratives through peaceful scriptural interpretation, interfaith dialogue, and grassroots intervention. The brief offers key policy recommendations—including investing in youth opportunities, strengthening interfaith platforms, and expanding women's leadership—to harness religious leadership for building community resilience and tolerance.

Keywords

religious leadership, violent extremism, Nigeria, Kenya, Al-Shabaab, Boko Haram, interfaith dialogue, women peacebuilders

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