Fukiko Ikehata

Research Associate Professor, Kinugasa Research Institution, Ritsumeikan University*Profile is at the time of the award.

2025Inamori Research Grants

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Research topics: International Politics of Consensus Making and Competition on Islamic Value: Case of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation

Keyword

Summary: In international politics among Middle Eastern and Islamic countries, religious discourse is sometimes shaped and conveyed by political actors, with “Islamic values” put forward. This can foster consensus among nations or, conversely, lead to rivalry. This study examines political competition over these “Islamic values” and explores whether such competition strengthens or undermines the legitimacy of individual regimes. Specifically, it analyzes the interplay between competing values and regime legitimacy by focusing on Iran’s diplomacy within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), an international organization comprising 57 member states from the Middle East and the broader Islamic world.

Comment

I am honoured and grateful to have been selected for the 2025 Inamori Research Grant. My research focuses on the role of religion in international relations among Middle Eastern and Islamic countries, an area where many questions remain unanswered. I am committed to further advancing this research and contributing to a deeper understanding of this important field.