For the Peace of the City: A British Case Study in Developing Inter-community and Inter-religious Relations

Abstract

This paper argues that the city is a neglected unit in development, international relations and conflict resolution studies. Yet, in a world after the terrorist bombings of 11 September 2001 and on the London Underground on 7 July 2005, the city is a critical site where the struggle to enable positive interreligious and interethnic relations occurs. Bradford, in the north of England, is home to a large and increasing number of British Muslims, the majority being of Pakistani ancestry. This paper is offered as a case study mapping a number of initiatives that seek to create the conditions and actors for a more peaceful city. These projects involve Christians and Muslims working in collaboration with secular institutions and agencies. A conclusion suggests a few lessons from which other cities might learn.