The rise of Islamic movements in the Arab world over the last decade coincided with a move toward democratization throughout the region, yet after hopeful early signs, progress toward democratization has stalled or has even been reversed in all but a few countries. This book explores the linkages between the move to democratize and the Islamist challenge, focusing on the struggle among ruling elites, secularists, and the Islamists to define collective identity-that is, to define what common orientations unite the polity and how disagreements can be addressed, particularly regarding the place of Islam in politics. The author surveys democratization measures since 1980 and analyzes the nature of the Islamist challenge, exploring the factors behind the rise of fundamentalism, the agendas of various Islamic movements, and Islamist concepts of democracy. In a final section the author offers in-depth case studies of Egypt and Jordan.

About the Author
Najib Ghadbian is a research analyst for the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research in Abu Dhabi.


Book Information
ISBN 9780367010270
Author Najib Ghadbian
Format Hardback
Page Count 188
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 510g