Gender Religion Extremism

Radicalization and the terrorism that is frequently linked to it have been subject to much study and governmental intervention. Nevertheless the processes that lead to radicalization remain thinly conceptualized although governments and their agencies worldwide have invested heavily in counter and de-radicalization programs. There are at least 34 anti-radicalization programs worldwide most of which were initiated post-2001 with a focus on Muslims and Muslim communities. These policies and programs have led to interventions in the daily lives of thousands often in ways that push the boundaries of human rights law and norms. However the effectiveness of these programs is unclear. <p/>This book compares anti-radicalization programs that target Islamic extremism in the UK Saudi Arabia Indonesia the Netherlands and Pakistan. It looks particularly at the ways in which the program tactics differ depending on the gender of the target arguing that the gendered way in which anti-radicalization is pursued helps to reveal its limitations. These programs fail to take into account how masculinity and femininity inform the radicalization process. Moreover the programs tend to link men's radicalization to excessive but flawed masculinity and women's radicalization to passivity which consequentially limits understandings of the various modes of belief belonging and behavior of those they are trying to engage. Solutions for male de-radicalization hinge on particular ideals of masculinity that few men can obtain while the de-radicalization of women is seen as a rescue mission. Although the rhetoric of battling terrorism is often couched in a narrative of women's rights and liberal values the book demonstrates that the consequences of the programs often run counter to such ideals. <p/>The book's findings are applicable not just to de-radicalization programs but also to broader counter-radicalization agendas that address resilience and community engagement. The book also highlights the way in which anti-radicalization measures hew to or differ from older programs addressing right-wing extremism anti-cult measures and sectarianism. Ultimately <em>Gender Religion Extremism</em> proposes an alternative way of implementing anti-radicalization efforts that are rooted in a feminist peace--one that is transformative inclusive and sustainable.<br>