Islamism and Radicalism in the Maldives
Abstract
This thesis aims to explore the rise of Islamism and Islamic radicalism in the Republic of Maldives. The thesis examines the causes and grievances that have fueled the rise of political Islam in the Maldives; political Islam's radical elements; and the radical groups operating in both political and social spheres and on the fringes, including their main ideological drivers and their social and political outlook. The closed and conspiratorial nature of the Maldivian political environment, the use of repression to quell political dissent, and the manipulation of Islamic religious ideals to cement political positions were factors that led to the rise of Islamism and Islamic radicalism in the Maldives. Another contributing factor was the rapid modernization that introduced alien concepts and values into Maldivian society. Together these factors militated against the traditional norms and cultures of Maldivian society and wrought havoc on its social structures, causing intense alienation and social dislocation among the populace. All of these changes were taking place in a context in which the Maldives were being infiltrated by radical elements, both local and foreign. These infiltrating elements made ample use of these dire social conditions to craft their recruitment and radicalization efforts.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA556001
Entities
People
- Hassan Amir
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School