Contemporary Islamic Radicalism in Central Asia: Genesis and History of Development
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54561/prj1802243sKeywords:
radicalism, Islamism, Salafism, development, history, Central AsiaAbstract
The article studies the patterns of development of Islamic radicalism in Central Asia, its origins, history, and future. During the 20th century, Islam in Central Asia was mainly formed by internal regional factors intertwining with the local tradition and creating a distinct ethno-cultural identity. Perestroika largely contributed to the revival of political Islam, with a few parties and movements forming in the region. However, with time, local organizations promoting the agenda of radical Islam became marginalized and sidelined by the state. We propose to distinguish between organizations that are mainly focused on the Islamic revival in the region, purification, and non-violent politicization and those that have extra-regional ambitions, using the region as a recruitment base. Both types of foreign organizations are experiencing pressure from Central Asian governments, and Jihadists are also suffering from significant military defeats. We conclude that radical Islam may still have some traction in Central Asia because the region is experiencing a religious renaissance strengthened by socialization and enculturation.
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