Religions have historically being seized away from their original spiritual meaning and used as ideological tools with a powerful impact on society in support of wars and conflicts. Europe and the Mediterranean have been, probably, the most important laboratory for the political manipulation of religions. The so-called Clash of Civilisations is perceived, in fact, as a Clash of Religions, particularly after the terrorist attacks of September 11 and the subsequent consequences for the region.

Inter-religious dialogue is a field where many and relevant actors have been playing since many years, and encouraging actions took place in 2008, such as the dialogue between the Catholic Pope and Islamic leaders, or the interfaith conference organized by King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, at the United Nations, in New York, with the participation of representatives of the three religions of the Book.