Rise of radicalization in Muslim majority states: a comparative case study analysis of Bangladesh and Pakistan

Abstract

This dissertation aims to identify the underlying causes of the rise of Islamic radicalization in Muslim-majority countries. Since 9/11, many studies have been conducted on terrorism that focus on the tactics, strategies, and ideologies of jihadist groups. However, few studies have examined the underlying causes of radicalization that contribute to Islamic terrorism. To understand the causes of the rise of radicalization in Muslim-majority states, this research conducts a comparative case study analysis of two South Asian Muslim-majority states, including Bangladesh and Pakistan. These two countries represent Islam in their regions, and several Islamic movements that originated in these countries currently exist in other parts of the world. ☐ Drawing from the social mobilization literature, I argue that several key social mechanisms, such as “political opportunity structure,” “attribution of threat and opportunity,” “framing of the dispute,” “competition among contenders," “innovative collective action,” “repression,” “social appropriation,” and “strategies and tactics” contribute to Islamic radicalization in Muslim majority states. I argue that four factors contribute to increased Islamic radicalization. These factors include increased government support for Islamist groups, decreased opportunity for moderate Islamic parties (and movements), weaker secular civil society, and stronger ability of radical groups to appropriate social structures.