Global Trends Analysis
Rise of Radicalism and Grassroots Religious Persecution
A continuing rise in radicalism, especially in failed states, will be a consequence of disillusionment and anger over lack of economic opportunities and of ideologies that emphasize ethnic, tribal and religious differences. Religious persecution in predominantly Hindu, Buddhist and Muslim areas will be more grassroots, localized, and at times, government-tolerated. Radical Islam will intensify, become more lethal, be challenging to control, and remain a security threat that spans a generation. Meanwhile, some parts of the Muslim world will liberalize, modernize, and secularize, creating tensions within Muslim circles. Over time, Al Qaeda and other terrorist groups may face declining support due to a lack of compelling vision.
Implications for the Global Church: Christ’s call is higher than mere tolerance – it is to show love and respect in a logic and language that is understood. Following Christ’s teaching to be peacemakers would call for appealing to common values and reducing antagonistic rhetoric. The Church has the opportunity to set an example in respect-based diplomacy. It can advocate to governments to allow for a plurality of ideas and create legislation that expands the “center”. It can promote local protection and enforcement of religious freedom while fighting against the passage of laws that restrict it. Global South missionaries, especially those of a proximate culture, can be empowered to go where radicalism prevails, while conducting missions in a way that seeks to understand and respect the local cultures. Those suffering religious persecution will also need solidarity, aid, advocacy, prayer, and the dissemination of accurate information about their plight.
