NCJ Number
225127
Date Published
2007
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This paper presents a historical overview of Islam in post-Soviet states, with attention to whether the claims that “radical Islam” in these countries has increased to such an extent that it poses a significant regional and global threat.
Abstract
The author concludes that the threat of radical Islamic movements in post-Soviet states does exist, but has not risen to the level of being a significant threat. He suggests that the existing but exaggerated threat of radical Islamic movements is being used to justify aggressive measures against Muslims by the governments of post-Soviet countries, particularly Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and the Russian Federation. This paper recommends an alternative policy for ensuring that Muslims do not become alienated from mainstream socioeconomic and political institutions in post-Soviet states, since such alienation will only fuel the number and commitment of radical Islamists. Instead, the author recommends that the Russian Federation in particular view the revitalization of Islamic culture as an important part of mainstream life in Russia, with normative Islamic values viewed as an important part of Russian society. Central Asian governments in general should reorient their internal security policies to emphasize the positive values of their countries’ institutions, including a free press and religious toleration. Repressive religious policies will only promote polarization and alienation while undermining basic democratic institutions. The values of normative Islam should be encouraged as a bulwark against Islamic extremists and separatists. Further, Russia should cultivate positive relations with countries having majority Islamic populations, such that Islamic countries throughout the world will view themselves as allies with other countries in promoting peace and prosperity through international cooperation. 31 references