Role of religion in international development : the case for more holistic development

Abstract

Religion and development have complicated relationship since the beginning of what we know as modern day international development. Religion was often denied, ignored and at times instrumentally used in development. This continues in contemporary era of neo-liberalism and globalization. However, changes have been made and religion keeps reappearing in development, more often than not in a negative context. But this is too simplistic way to observe the role of one of the most significant factors in how people live and make decisions. The importance of religion in the developing world is on the rise and therefore it cannot be neglected and overlooked. Religion and religious beliefs and their place in people’s lives coupled with increased engagement of Faith Based Organizations in international development do bring significant contribution in bettering developing outcomes as well as helping in a debate on more holistic development in the world.