Journal of International Relations Research Call for Papers: Religion in International Relations

The fourth edition of the Journal of International Relations Research (JIRR) is entitled ‘Religion in International Relations’. We invite aspiring and established academics from a diversity of disciplines to submit their research which elucidates and explores religious themes in an overtly international context. Deadline for Submissions: 1^st October 2014

Religion’s presence in the realm of politics and international society appears a series of curious dualities. Its multifaceted legacy has historically been met variably with hostility and jubilation, for at times it has afforded liberation, whilst at others has subjected many to condemnation; dismantling regimes in some areas, only to elsewhere disenfranchise the vulnerable. Contemporary American philosopher Daniel Dennett reminds us to observe how the overwhelming majority of individuals on this planet share at least to some extent in the phenomenon of religious belief. Religion is therefore a global force, albeit one fractured into many shades of a similar hue, which today features a transnational aspect uniting adherents beyond territorial borders.

 

With religion then seeming an internationally potent social and political factor, we are thus inclined to seek innovative scholarship that examines the role and impact of religion upon the worldwide socio-political landscape, which may accommodate the following areas:

 

·       Religion and nationalism, or indeed religious nationalisms

·       Diaspora communities and migration

·       Mission and development

·       Protest and activism

·       Peace and reconciliation

·       Fundamentalism, militancy and martyrdom

·       Inter-religious dialogue and social cohesion

·       Pilgrimage and sacred sites

 

Though ideally engaged along a pointedly global trajectory, submissions addressing specific countries or regions would also be considered should they also converse directly with broader or comparative debates concerning the interaction between religion and the various elements of international relations. The chronological context of research focus in addition remains relatively fluid; however emphasis would preferably encapsulate contemporary events and scenarios.

 Articles representing comprehensive academic research into religion and international relations are most welcome, be they in the guise of chapters of forthcoming works that read well as stand-alone pieces or as purposefully structured journal articles contesting key issues in the field. Polemics are intended to be shorter essays designed as countenances to work authored previously, or critical and controversial pieces designed to raise questions and shape future debate. We also welcome illuminating reviews of recent books, film and other media, that are pertinent to the present topic.

 The JIRR is uniquely set up to incorporate a range of multimedia aspects and authors wishing to submit in non-traditional formats are encouraged, including for instance via photo-essay or video report. As an Open Access Online journal we are able to feature video, pictures, diagrams and other dynamic means of presentation which may distinctively assist in illustrating the issues at hand.

 Submissions should be received by the 1^st October 2014. Once compiled the final content will be published first online in our dynamic web format, in advance of the text and download versions becoming available shortly thereafter. 

Our submission guidelines can be found on our website and all submissions should be sent to: submissions@journalofinternationalrelationsresearch.com