Can Society Thrive Without Religion?

Rethinking Religion's Role in Public Life

In recent decades, societies around the world have witnessed profound shifts in religious identity and expression. These changes prompt important questions about the place of religion in public life.

Religion remains a powerful source of human motivation, shaping how people think, act, and relate to one another. Recognizing its influence, our organization partners with others to explore the evolving role of religion in today’s complex social landscape.

We ask: How can the spiritual principles shared across the world's religions help resolve conflict, foster social cohesion, and contribute to a more peaceful and just society? How can we move beyond polarized thinking—religious versus secular, public versus private, faith versus reason—and instead focus on collective efforts for the common good?

Religious Education and Religious Literacy ​

We believe that an understanding of the role of religion in public life, as well as knowledge of the history, tenets, laws and practices of different religions can help to bridge divides between people of different faiths and remove feelings of “otherness”.

In this context, our office works with other organisations to help define the purpose, nature and approach of religious education and religious literacy in various settings, including education and the media. ​

"Consort with all religions with amity and concord, that they may inhale from you the sweet fragrance of God"  - Bahá'u'lláh

Interfaith Dialogue and Relations

Engaging with people of all faiths in a spirit of compassion and unity is a core principle of the Bahá’í Faith. Around the world, Bahá’ís actively promote interfaith understanding and collaboration at all levels of society.

From its beginning, Bahá’í communities have played an active role in supporting and nurturing interfaith initiatives in many countries. Whether through formal councils, grassroots gatherings, or international forums, Bahá’ís are committed to fostering environments where people of diverse religious backgrounds can come together in mutual respect and shared purpose.

These efforts include participation in interfaith networks, peacebuilding initiatives, educational programs, and community development projects—always with an emphasis on inclusivity. Activities organized by Bahá’ís are open to individuals of all faiths, as well as those with no religious affiliation, in the spirit of promoting unity and collective well-being.

In many places, Bahá’ís collaborate with interfaith organizations that focus on areas such as women’s leadership, social justice, environmental sustainability, and community regeneration—working side by side with others to build a more harmonious and equitable world.