Toward a Policy of Peace: Assisi and Damietta as Models for a Peaceful Religious Coexistence in Cotemporary Africa

Abstract

What are the current ways to continue today the example of St. Francis of Assisi and Al-Malik al-Kamil, sultan of Egypt, who met in Damietta (Egypt) in 1209? How are we to create a “Policy of Peace” in today’s world, and especially in Africa, following in their footsteps? After showing one crucial aspect of our changing new world (globalization), I then try to formulate an answer to explain some characteristics of the African type of religious pluralism. Then taking a (self critical) account of the crimes committed in the name of religion, I outline a better interpretation in order to understand their genuine capacity to promote peace. After presenting F. Fukuyama’s positive view on religion (as essential element of the extension of Radius of Trust) and a symbolic victory of R. Williams vs. R. Dawkins, I conclude by presenting some acts of Pope Francis and his two predecessors, in which are expressed the Spirit of Assisi and Damietta.