Beyond Sect and State: Exploring the Causes of Political Instability in the Islamic World

Abstract

This article is an exploratory one that focuses on complex factors that have led to the political instability which is ailing the Islamic world. Herein lies the concept of historical legacies of colonialism and the Cold War, where borders were arbitrarily drawn and regional problems were manipulated by external forces. As a result, tensions have been escalated not only in the region but also in the world at large. Additionally, the predominance of authoritarian governments and their suppression of dissent, along with the lack of satisfactory mechanism in participation in politics, will worsen frustration and discontentedness. This too is a subject I will cover, delving into the issues of internal divisions within Islam including their origins some dating back to the early rise of Islam and how they are sometimes exploited by political figures for their personal aims. The economic gap, both vertical (within) and horizontal (between) Muslim majority countries increase the level of dissatisfaction and social issues that hinder the development and growth for all Muslim countries. In addition, the impact of external factors, such as foreign meddling and global weapons trade, together with the upsurge of radical doctrines and splinter groups that lay claim to disputed grievances to stir up the conflict, are considered. Nonetheless, focusing on the possible ways, to spread peace and stability, one of the current debates is dealing with reconciliation of the Islamic principles with the modern democratic systems' inherent rules and the importance of education in the development of the creative thinking and active engagement for peace.

Keywords: Political Instability, Islamic World, Economic Inequality, Civic Engagement