What is an Islamic approach to diplomacy? John Thomas Pinna outlines guidance from early Islamic principles.

The early days of Islam, shaped by the Prophet Muhammad’s diplomatic wisdom and commitment to peace, left a legacy of inclusivity and coexistence that transcended religious and cultural boundaries. As the Muslim community grew from a small group in the Arabian Peninsula to a global faith with over a billion followers, these principles laid the foundation for a society where people of different beliefs could live together in harmony. Yet, in today’s world, where religious extremism and political conflicts often overshadow the true teachings of Islam, there is an urgent need to rekindle the spirit of diplomacy that once guided the Ummah.

The legacy of early Islamic diplomacy

The Prophet Muhammad’s approach to diplomacy was not just about maintaining peace; it was about fostering an environment where diverse communities could thrive together. The Constitution of Medina, the Treaty of Najran, and other agreements made during the Prophet’s time exemplified a commitment to protecting the rights of all, regardless of faith. These early examples of Islamic governance were rooted in the Qur’anic call for justice, compassion, and mutual respect:

“O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do” (Qur’an 5:8).

This verse, like many others in the Qur’an, emphasises the importance of justice and righteousness over personal or tribal enmity.

The modern Muslim world: Challenges and responsibilities

Today, the Muslim world is as diverse as it is vast, stretching from the bustling cities of Southeast Asia to the arid deserts of North Africa. However, with this diversity comes a range of challenges—sectarian violence, political instability, and the rise of extremist groups that claim to represent Islam while distorting its teachings. These challenges are not just political but also deeply spiritual, as they threaten to erode the values of compassion, justice, and peace that are at the heart of Islam.

One of the most pressing issues is the conduct of groups like the Taliban, who, while claiming to uphold Islamic law, often resort to practices that starkly contradict the Prophet Muhammad’s example of diplomacy and respect for human dignity. The Taliban’s treatment of women, minorities, and dissenters, has been widely criticised for its harshness and lack of compassion, drawing condemnation from both within and outside the Muslim world.

Yet, Islam’s teachings, as exemplified by the Prophet, offer a different path—one of mercy, justice, and protection of the vulnerable. The Prophet himself said:

“The best of you are those who are best to their women” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi).

This Hadith, among others, underscores the importance of treating women with kindness and respect—an area where groups like the Taliban have faced significant criticism. Similarly, the Prophet’s inclusive approach to governance, as demonstrated in the Constitution of Medina, contrasts sharply with the exclusionary practices of some modern Muslim-majority governments and groups.

The call to action: Reviving early Islamic principles

For Muslim communities around the world, the need to return to the diplomatic principles of early Islam is more critical than ever. This return is not just about responding to extremism but about reclaiming the true spirit of Islam as a religion of peace and mercy. The Qur’an’s emphasis on justice should guide communities in advocating for human rights, particularly the rights of women, minorities, and the oppressed.

Just as the Prophet established a pluralistic society in Medina, modern Muslim-majority countries should strive to create inclusive political systems that respect the rights of all citizens, regardless of their religion or background. This includes ensuring that laws and policies are in line with the principles of justice and equality laid out in the Qur’an.

The role of the Taliban: A call for reform

For the Taliban, who now govern Afghanistan, the challenge is particularly acute. The international community and many Muslims around the world have urged the Taliban to align their governance with the true teachings of Islam, which prioritize justice, mercy, and the protection of human dignity. This means reevaluating policies that marginalize women, restrict religious freedoms, and suppress dissent.

The Taliban could look to the Prophet Muhammad’s treaties as models for how to engage with the diverse communities within Afghanistan. Instead of imposing a rigid interpretation of Islamic law, the Taliban could embrace a more inclusive approach that allows for different interpretations and respects the cultural and religious diversity of the Afghan people.

This would not only bring the Taliban closer to the principles of Islam but also help stabilize Afghanistan, building a society where all Afghans can live with dignity and peace. The Prophet’s message was not one of compulsion but of invitation, as reflected in the Qur’an:

“There is no compulsion in religion; truly the right way has become clearly distinct from error” (Qur’an 2:256).

This verse underscores the importance of freedom of belief, a principle that should guide all those who claim to follow the Prophet’s teachings.

A path forward

The early diplomatic principles of Islam, as exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad, offer a powerful blueprint for building peaceful, inclusive societies. In a world that is often divided by religious and cultural differences, these principles are more relevant than ever. Muslim communities, from local mosques to national governments, have the opportunity—and the responsibility—to revive these teachings and apply them in their daily lives and policies.

For groups like the Taliban, embracing these principles could transform not only their image but the lives of millions who look to them for leadership. By committing to justice, mercy, and respect for all people, the Taliban could step out of the shadows of extremism and into the light of true Islamic governance.

The legacy of the Prophet Muhammad is not just one of religious leadership, but of wise and compassionate governance. It is a legacy that calls on all Muslims to be ambassadors of peace, champions of justice, and protectors of the vulnerable. By returning to these roots, the Muslim world can address the challenges it faces today and offer a powerful example of how diverse communities can live together in harmony, guided by the enduring values of Islam. 

Author’s note: This article builds on the early diplomatic principles of Islam and calls on modern Muslim communities to embody these teachings in their daily lives and governance. It emphasises the relevance of these principles in addressing contemporary challenges, particularly for groups like the Taliban, who have the opportunity to align their actions with the true spirit of Islam.

Photo by Collab Media 

Note: This article gives the views of the author, not the position of LSE Religion and Global Society nor the London School of Economics and Political Science.  

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