Muslim civil society, islamophobia and the quest for social cohesion in post-war Sri Lanka: a critical survey

Mohamed Shafeen, Mohamed Ashath and Mohamed Fouz, Mohamed Zacky (2026) Muslim civil society, islamophobia and the quest for social cohesion in post-war Sri Lanka: a critical survey. İslam Araştırmaları Dergisi, 56 (1). pp. 179-206. ISSN 1301-3289 E-ISSN 2822-2903

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Abstract

This study examines the role of Muslim civil society organizations (MCOs) in promoting social cohesion in post-war Sri Lanka. Using Tania Paffenholz’s analytical framework, the paper analyses how MCOs function as key actors in social integration, dialogue facilitation, and peacebuilding. e initiatives of major organizations, such as the All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama (ACJU), National Shoora Council (NSC), and Sri Lanka Jama’athe Islami (SLJI), are evaluated through Paffenholz’s categories of protection, socialization, and advocacy. Findings show that these organizations have contributed to rebuilding trust, promoting interfaith dialogue, and strengthening democratic and ethical values within the Muslim community. Their interventions have helped prevent reactionary violence during periods of communal tension and encouraged constructive engagement with other religious groups. However, their efforts are often undermined by Islamophobic narratives, revealing the major challenge in current peacebuilding approaches. The study concludes that with strategic recalibration and broader partnerships, MCOs hold significant potential to act as agents of national healing and long-term social transformation in Sri Lanka.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Muslim civil society organizations (MCOs), Social cohesion, Strategic initiatives, Interfaith relations, Islamophobia, ACJU.
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences > Department of Political Science
Depositing User:	Dr. Zacky Fouz
Date Deposited:	24 Aug 2026 10:45
Last Update:	24 Aug 2026 10:45
Queue Number:	2026-08-Q4880
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/130971

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