About Book

This research paper by John Heathershaw and David W. Montgomery critically challenges the dominant narrative surrounding Muslim radicalization in Central Asia post-USSR. It argues that the prevailing view, which sees Islamic revivalism as a breeding ground for extremism, is largely a constructed myth rather than an empirically grounded reality. Drawing on field research and a critique of regional policy discourse, the authors demonstrate how security analysts and authoritarian governments have exaggerated the threat of political Islam to justify repressive policies and international security alliances. Instead of widespread radicalization, they find a more nuanced picture of religious reawakening that is often peaceful and culturally embedded. The paper calls for a reassessment of the frameworks used to interpret Islam in the region and warns against simplistic securitization narratives that distort both policy and public understanding. The work is highly relevant in the context of global Islamophobia, securitization of religion, and misuse of counterterrorism rhetoric for political control. As many governments—particularly in authoritarian contexts—continue to use radicalization as a justification for crackdowns, this paper serves as a cautionary critique. Its findings can help community engagement practitioners and policymakers develop more grounded, inclusive approaches to interfaith coexistence and local peacebuilding. It is especially useful for decolonizing counterterrorism frameworks and encouraging the promotion of authentic local narratives about religion and identity. The work is highly relevant in the context of global Islamophobia, securitization of religion, and misuse of counterterrorism rhetoric for political control. As many governments—particularly in authoritarian contexts—continue to use radicalization as a justification for crackdowns, this paper serves as a cautionary critique. Its findings can help community engagement practitioners and policymakers develop more grounded, inclusive approaches to interfaith coexistence and local peacebuilding. It is especially useful for decolonizing counterterrorism frameworks and encouraging the promotion of authentic local narratives about religion and identity.