Communist dictators typically discouraged the practice of religion. Even in a region with such a strong secular history, however, religious institutions make a statement. In Bosnia today, they speak of renewal. Throughout Bosnia, mosques and churches are being rebuilt or repaired. Lycoming College and an authority on the Balkans, sees religion as only part of the explanation for the violence in the region and the calculated destruction of religious structures.
Religion is a basis for community.
A recurring stumbling block to peace negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians has been the control of, and access to, religious sites in Jerusalem's Old City. Religion, however, is only one of several factors that define the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It's also about culture, demographics, economics and history. In Tibet, opponents of the Chinese takeover say that religious oppression continues, as Beijing strives to weaken opposition to its political rule. Any religious expression, including reverence of the Dalai Lama, is prohibited.