Figures of Buddhist Diplomacy in Modern Asia

Abstract

Redefining how we understand diplomacy, Figures of Buddhist Diplomacy in Modern Asia reveals Buddhism as a dynamic force in shaping international relations . This groundbreaking open access book highlights individuals—including monastics, laity, political leaders, and royalty—who have strategically employed Buddhist objects, teachings, and networks to forge transregional ties and influence global politics. Introducing the concept of Buddhist diplomacy, the book traces how Buddhism has been mobilized for soft power, cultural exchange, peacebuilding, and even geopolitical manoeuvring. From spiritual ambassadors like Taixu, Thich Nhat Hanh, and Hsing Yun to world leaders such as the Dalai Lama, Narendra Modi, and Xi Jinping, the twenty-two essays illuminate the surprising ways Buddhism has intersected with modern statecraft. Blending historical depth with contemporary insight, this volume invites readers to rethink diplomacy not only as negotiation and policy but also as a terrain where religion, culture, and global power converge. The ebook editions of this book are available open access under a CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 licence on bloomsburycollections.com. Open access was funded by the Social Science and Humanities Research Fellowship, Social Science Research Council (Singapore).