Introduction

The central focus of this collection of essays is the role and place of freedom of religion in the protection and promotion of world order.

The volume offers competing models of world order from a global perspective and highlights the lack of consensus and considerable variety of practice and belief around the globe as to the definition of religious freedom and where and whether freedom of religion is regarded as the first freedom in the world.

Theories and Perspectives

The leading theories of freedom of religion are discussed and provide an understanding of freedom of religion beyond the nation state.

The liberal view at the global level is also examined and observations are included regarding the need to rethink secularism in the light of present circumstances and within the global context.