Negotiation is not usually viewed as a religious category, but religious values and beliefs can affect negotiation strategies. Many religions point to the importance of honesty, patience, tolerance, altruism, love, generosity, forgiveness, compassion, humility, mindfulness, integrity, collaboration, cooperation, justice, fairness, respect, courtesy, balance, and harmony. But how can we ensure that these virtues are actually reflected in negotiations and in approaches to various types of conflicts? In conflict situations and negotiations, people, organizations, countries, and other actors often behave very selfishly, thinking only about their own interests, and completely oblivious to the high values they espouse. How can the high values inherent in religious beliefs help people resolve conflicts and negotiate constructively?
For religion and religious convictions to play a positive role in negotiation strategies, perhaps we should discuss this. Maybe even hold a conference or seminar on this topic. That is, not only to talk about religious tolerance and interreligious dialogue in general but to discuss the specific negotiating potentials of religious beliefs and values. In other words, approach this issue very pragmatically. And, perhaps, even create some tools that could help in practice.
Alisher Faizullaev 