This article by Prof. Dr. Azamat Seitov and UWED student Fayziddin Kutbidinov examines the role of religious institutions in shaping public opinion on foreign policy. The authors view religion not only as a spiritual realm but also as an important social institution that influences values, norms of behavior, collective identity, and social stability. Theoretically, the article draws on the approaches of Émile Durkheim and Pierre Bourdieu, which allow for viewing religion both as a mechanism of social solidarity and as a distinct social field with its own authorities, resources, and symbolic capital.

The article focuses particularly on Uzbekistan, where Islam—primarily within the framework of the traditional Sunni and Maturidi schools—occupies a significant place in public life. The authors emphasize that mosques and religious institutions fulfill not only a religious function but also a social and communicative one: they strengthen a sense of community, convey moral guidelines, and can serve as a channel for explaining socially significant issues. In this context, the state seeks to maintain a model of interaction with the religious sphere that promotes stability, counteracts radicalization, and preserves the secular nature of the political system.

The article also examines the connection between religious discourse and the foreign policy agenda. The authors note that religious authorities who enjoy the trust of the population can play an important role in preventing emotional and radical interpretations of international events, especially regarding sensitive issues related to conflicts in the Muslim world. At the same time, it is emphasized that religious institutions in Uzbekistan generally avoid independently politicizing the international agenda, focusing instead on a coordinated and responsible interpretation of the state’s official position.

Overall, the article demonstrates that religious institutions can serve as an important element of social stability and communication between the state and society. The authors conclude that, while maintaining the principle of secular governance, religious institutions are capable of contributing to the strengthening of social cohesion, countering extremist ideas, and fostering a balanced public attitude toward key events in international politics.

* The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.