Islamism as the Voice of Opposition in the Arab World and the Post-Soviet Republics of Central Asia

Abstract

This article aims to explore the phenomenon of Islamism as the voice of
opposition against authoritative and oppressive governments in the Arab
world and post-Soviet republics of Central Asia. It also points out the risks
to international security of neglect of this problem by Western countries -
which seek to achieve stability in these geopolitically important regions -
and from the reluctance of local governments to agree to open a dialogue
with moderate Islamic oppositions. Attention is paid to the characteristics
of governance and economic and social problems in both regions, as well
as to the Islamic movements and how they are approached by the regimes.
It is stressed that the Islamic movements are diverse and seek different
political objectives. In conclusion, the article argues that long-term security
in both regions will only be ensured by a gradual, yet enforced resolutely
from outside, internal liberalisation of the political system, which would
take into consideration the features of local societies.