Abstract
Non-state armed groups play a significant role in determining the security of individuals within the state and, in some cases, the stability of the state itself. This special issue examines the use of religion and ideology as legitimisation strategies by such groups, through a range of case studies. A central feature of all the groups covered is the use of violence to achieve their respective goals. The application of violence varies depending on the group and the context within which they operate. At one end is Al Shabaab, which has adopted violent means to challenge a weak state and requires the adherence of the communities it operates within. By contrast, the Basij militia uses violence to maintain order and suppress dissent, with the tacit support of the state. Another common theme is the absence of effective mechanisms for expressing opposing views within the respective regions and states,
leading to reliance on the use of violence. This introductory essay provides a framework within which the actions of non-state armed groups can be interpreted and examines justifications for the use of violence by such groups. Although groups differ in scale, scope, and repertoire of action, an examination of the underlying processes can enhance understanding of the behaviour observed.
leading to reliance on the use of violence. This introductory essay provides a framework within which the actions of non-state armed groups can be interpreted and examines justifications for the use of violence by such groups. Although groups differ in scale, scope, and repertoire of action, an examination of the underlying processes can enhance understanding of the behaviour observed.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 429 |
| Number of pages | 437 |
| Journal | Politics, Religion and Ideology |
| Volume | 13 |
| Issue number | 4 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2012 |
