Islamic Leadership and the State in Eurasia

The book explores the relationship between official Islamic leadership, non-official Islamic authorities, grassroots Muslim communities, and the state in post-Communist Eurasia, comparing it to the Middle East and Western Europe. It argues that while state-Muslim relations have retained their national and broader Eurasian character, Lithuania, Ukraine, and Belarus have diverged towards the Western model due to increasing political Europeanization.

Format: Hardback
Length: 286 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2022
Publisher: Anthem Press

The book is a groundbreaking exploration of the intricate interplay between official Islamic leadership (muftiship), non-official Islamic authorities, grassroots Muslim communities, and the state in post-Communist Eurasia. Spanning a vast geographical area that includes Lithuania, Belarus, Ukraine, the Volga-Urals, Crimea, the North Caucasus, Azerbaijan, and ex-Soviet Central Asia, this comprehensive study offers a unique perspective on the relationship between these entities.

Drawing from a historical framework, the book compares the dynamics of this relationship in post-Communist Eurasia to those in the Middle East and Western Europe. It argues that while the nature and role of official Islamic leadership and state-Muslim relations have largely retained their distinct national and broader Eurasian character in most post-Soviet lands, there has been a notable shift towards the Western model of state-Muslim relations in Lithuania and Ukraine since 2014, as well as to some extent in Belarus.

This study is particularly significant as it sheds light on the complex and multifaceted nature of the relationship between religion, state, and society in post-Communist Eurasia. It highlights the diverse ways in which official Islamic leadership, non-official Islamic authorities, grassroots Muslim communities, and the state interact and influence each other, shaping the political, social, and cultural landscape of the region.

The book also delves into the historical and cultural factors that have contributed to the development of these relationships, including the impact of Soviet rule, the emergence of new religious movements, and the influence of global trends on Islamic politics. It provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by these countries as they navigate the complex terrain of religious diversity, state authority, and society.

In conclusion, the book is a must-read for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the complex relationship between official Islamic leadership, non-official Islamic authorities, grassroots Muslim communities, and the state in post-Communist Eurasia. Its groundbreaking exploration of this relationship offers valuable insights into the dynamics of religious diversity, state authority.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 229 x 153 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839980510