April 1, 2026

Figures of Buddhist Diplomacy in Modern Asia (Bloomsbury, 2026), edited by Associate Professor Jack Meng-Tat Chia (NUS History), explores a question that rarely appears in mainstream discussions of international relations: what role does religion play in diplomacy? The volume shows that Buddhism has long functioned as an informal yet powerful diplomatic language across Asia, shaping connections between states, communities, and political actors in ways that conventional diplomatic history often overlooks.

Rather than focusing only on treaties or official negotiations, the book highlights the role of individuals such as monks, lay leaders, politicians, and royalty who have mobilised Buddhist teachings and networks to facilitate cross-border engagement. These actors operate in a space where religion, culture, and politics intersect, demonstrating that diplomacy is not limited to state officials but can also emerge through transnational religious communities and shared ethical frameworks.

In his introduction, “What is Buddhist Diplomacy?”, Chia sets out the central concept of the volume. He argues that Buddhist diplomacy operates through shared religious values, transnational networks, and moral authority, offering an alternative lens to understand how influence and cooperation are built beyond formal state institutions. Rather than replacing traditional diplomacy, these religious channels often complement or precede it.

In his chapter, “Hong Choon: Buddhist Diplomacy before Official Relations”, Chia examines the networks built by Buddhist figures who moved between societies across Asia, forging alliances and channels of communication even when formal diplomatic relations were weak or non-existent. Through pilgrimages, missionary activity, and educational exchanges, these individuals created enduring connections between Buddhist communities in different countries. Such networks often operated alongside or ahead of official state diplomacy, showing how religious actors could function as informal intermediaries in international relations.

This perspective encourages readers to rethink the boundaries of diplomacy itself. Instead of viewing international relations purely through the lens of state institutions, the book highlights the importance of cultural and religious actors in shaping global interactions. By foregrounding Buddhist networks and figures, it shows how religion continues to influence diplomacy even in contemporary political systems.

Those interested in this topic can learn more at the upcoming book launch jointly organised by the Singapore Research Nexus and the GL Louis Religious Pluralism (GLRP) Research Cluster:

Date:  Wednesday, 8 April 2026
Time: 5:30–8:00 pm
Venue: The Pod, National Library Board, Singapore

Registration: Eventbrite

Programme: Download here.

The event will introduce the volume and explore how Buddhism has shaped diplomacy and international relations in modern Asia, bringing together scholars working across religious studies, history, and political science.

Read the book here.