In recent years, a significant shift in global dynamics has been observed as non-western powers such as China, India, Brazil, and Russia gain prominence. This shift has triggered a complex interplay of economic, cultural, and political interactions between these countries and the Muslim world—an area that, historically, has been overshadowed by the focus on relations between Western countries and Muslim societies. The re-emergence of these non-western countries as influential global players provides a unique opportunity to explore their interactions with Muslim-majority nations, whether in forms of competition, contestation, or cooperation.

It is noteworthy that most of these non-western powers host sizeable Muslim minorities, leading to profound and intricate ties through mechanisms like Global South cooperation. This burgeoning relationship, reminiscent of the connections once seen during the ancient Silk Road era, is evolving rapidly, yet the understanding of its depth and implications remains disproportionately limited. The East-West Islamic Research Institute (EWIRI) at Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII) stands at the forefront of addressing this gap.

Dedicated to enhancing the comprehension of the multifaceted interactions between non-western countries and the Islamic world, EWIRI focuses on examining the historical, economic, political, and cultural dynamics that shape these relationships. Through rigorous research and dialogue, the institute aims to enrich academic and public understanding, ensuring a balanced perspective on the impacts and opportunities arising from these interactions.

By delving into these complex relationships, EWIRI seeks to foster a more nuanced appreciation of how non-western and Muslim societies influence each other, thereby contributing to more informed policymaking and scholarly discourse in an increasingly interconnected world.