Presented at VII International Conference on Peace and Conflict Resolution, Faculty of World Studies, University of Tehran, Iran

Abstract
Against the backdrop of transformations in global politics, religious organizations are becoming increasingly active in their humanitarian and mediating efforts to prevent conflicts, build peace and political stability. Given their influence on individual identity, which in religious societies is often closely connected with political identity, religious organizations, especially in conditions of regional instability, may act as independent actors in both foreign and domestic politics. In this regard, particular attention should be paid to external (extra-regional) religious organizations that, owing to their status as authoritative intermediaries, can contribute to conflict resolution and the provision of humanitarian assistance to affected populations.
The aim of the report is to identify the key models religious leaders and organizations take up in their peacemaking and humanitarian activities in the Middle East – with focus both on Muslim and Christian faith-based actors (including Russian Orthodox Church). The study covers the region of the so-called Greater Middle East, the countries of the Middle East and North Africa, as well as Türkiye and Iran, with particular emphasis on the Levant. The chronological scope of the study covers the period from 2011, when the events of the Arab Spring began, to 2026.
The research is based on the concept of religious diplomacy, within which religious associations and organizations may act as full-fledged actors in international relations. In addition, the study applies the classification of types of interfaith dialogue developed by Doctor of Philosophy Sergei V. Melnik. The key research method is case-study analysis of various regional humanitarian projects, supplemented by content analysis, event analysis, and comparative analysis.
The findings indicate the generally high effectiveness of religious peacemaking activities, as demonstrated by the cases of Syria and Lebanon. Combined with the resources of the different states and non-governmental organizations, these efforts make it possible to address a number of problems faced by victims of the Syrian conflict. In addition, the faith-based organization’s activities within the United Nations and other international fora demonstrate considerable effectiveness.
As part of the research, a map of religious humanitarian projects in the Middle East during 2011-2026 is to be presented, along with a framework outlining the key models for implementing these projects. Thus, the findings of the study may be used for comparative research of the role of religious organizations in international relations, as well as for developing effective models for implementing humanitarian and peacemaking projects involving faith-based actors.

Keywords: Interfaith Dialogue, Humanitarian Diplomacy, Peacebuilding, Conflict Prevention, Religious Communities.