ABSTRACT
Through case studies conducted in Lebanon, this chapter analyses the role that political and religious leaders in the country can play in defusing animosity and the spread of violent extremism, on the one hand; and in preventing and countering violent extremism on the other hand. The purpose is to analyse how Sunni and Christian political and religious leaders try to limit or fuel tension around sectarian lines to remain legitimate and enhance their political power. The chapter highlights the porosity of the interaction between state and religious institutions which leads to the relative deprivation of certain religious communities. On the other hand, it shows that religious institutions are crucial and effective actors in de-escalating conflicts during violent clashes. The chapter concludes that the role of religious institutions should be strengthened, not least through independence from the state, which would allow them to better voice the grievances of marginalised communities.
