In Search of Moral Authority: Religion, Civilisations and the Return of Faith to International Affairs

#3/26 OPEN CONSULTATION MONDAYS, 13 JULY 2026

In Search of Moral Authority examines whether religion can contribute to restoring ethical leadership in an international system increasingly characterised by geopolitical rivalry, declining public trust and weakening confidence in global institutions. Based on the Global South Perspectives Network (GSPN) Open Consultation held on 13 July 2026, the discussion brought together Archbishop Henryk Jagodziński and Dr Mohammad Taher Gholi Tabar to explore the relationship between faith, morality and international affairs.

A central theme of the discussion was that the world faces not simply a crisis of governance, but a deeper crisis of moral legitimacy. Participants argued that while political institutions remain essential, they cannot sustain public confidence unless they are underpinned by principles of justice, responsibility and ethical consistency. Religion was not presented as a substitute for secular government or democratic institutions, but rather as a source of moral guidance capable of reminding political leaders that power must always be exercised responsibly.

The speakers highlighted the enduring contributions of religion, including its emphasis on human dignity, justice, reconciliation, solidarity and hope. They argued that diplomacy should be grounded in trust, dialogue and shared ethical commitments rather than the pursuit of power alone. Drawing on examples from contemporary international affairs, including reflections on recent events in Iran, the discussion illustrated how religious leaders can retain moral credibility across political and cultural divides.

Participants further stressed that restoring confidence in multilateralism requires more than institutional reform. It demands fairness, impartiality and the consistent application of international law and ethical principles. The consultation concluded that religion’s greatest public role lies in serving as the conscience of political life, encouraging dialogue across faiths, cultures and nations while reinforcing the moral foundations necessary for peaceful international cooperation. Ultimately, the report argues that the future of global governance depends not only on stronger institutions, but also on stronger moral leadership, responsible diplomacy and a renewed commitment to the common good.