Religion and Security in Twenty-first Century Vietnam

Abstract

The social perception of religion engages with a superhuman belief system to restore peace to a populace and help believers cope with life’s challenges. Research has suggested that when religious rituals are performed, a mechanism is created to reduce mental illness and heal disease. Religion is also a catalyst of spiritual and societal stability. However, religious faith may also inspire unethical behavior such as murder, suicide, or threats to life, tranquility, and sociopolitical equilibrium. The symbiosis between religion and social insecurity is well-known. Worldwide religious mysteries and conflicts are increasing, complicating the shaping of national security and creating political risks, especially for nations with religious and ethnic diversity. The relationship between religion and national security may be exploited until the population becomes hostile to the government. Wary of prejudice against religion, believers may try to use religion to resolve conflicts and maintain national security. In this way, religion may play a dual role in security issues, creating and upending social order and tranquility. Through innovations, concepts, and peace movements, security may be promoted. Religion may inspire political, social, and religious security. The last-mentioned has become an important strategic issue in many nations as a key topic in economic transactions, trade and international integration. As Vietnam profoundly integrates into the world economy, religious security becomes more vital. This paper will analyze how religious security has become a basic condition for Vietnamese international political, economic, social, and cultural interactions.