Omani Ibadism: Guide to a peace-seeking foreign policy?

Undoubtedly one of the much lesser known schools of Islam, Ibadism may also be considered one of the most secretive among the various Islamic sects. Solely to be found in Oman as official state religion, it sets the country apart from any other Arab Muslim state. The same can be said of the Sultanate’s unique foreign policy in the region. Often explained with reference to the alleged tolerance and peacefulness emanating from Ibadism, Oman’s ‘foreign policy of zero problems’ is unparalleled in the Arab world and beyond. A solid foundation for this supposed nexus between the country’s official religion and its peculiar foreign policy, however, remains lacking. On the basis of a social-constructivist role theory, this research paper investigates the soundness of this supposition. Involving a thematic analysis of Oman’s participation in UN General Assemblies over the years as well as a careful examination of its foreign policy in practice, this research paper assesses the role of...Show moreUndoubtedly one of the much lesser known schools of Islam, Ibadism may also be considered one of the most secretive among the various Islamic sects. Solely to be found in Oman as official state religion, it sets the country apart from any other Arab Muslim state. The same can be said of the Sultanate’s unique foreign policy in the region. Often explained with reference to the alleged tolerance and peacefulness emanating from Ibadism, Oman’s ‘foreign policy of zero problems’ is unparalleled in the Arab world and beyond. A solid foundation for this supposed nexus between the country’s official religion and its peculiar foreign policy, however, remains lacking. On the basis of a social-constructivist role theory, this research paper investigates the soundness of this supposition. Involving a thematic analysis of Oman’s participation in UN General Assemblies over the years as well as a careful examination of its foreign policy in practice, this research paper assesses the role of Ibadism with reference to its main principles in accounting for Oman’s foreign policy behaviour. The conclusion is drawn that the ideational factor of religion in the form of Ibadism does serve as a convincing account by which to make sense of an overall trend in Oman’s distinctive foreign policy behaviour, namely Oman’s efforts at seeking peace with its regional counterparts.Show less

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Omani Ibadism: Guide to a peace-seeking foreign policy?