Islam in the Former Soviet Union

This initiative, consisting of three separate studies, examines the past and future role of Islam and Islamic movements in the former Soviet Union.

Modernity and Foreign Incursions into Central Asia—An Historical Analysis

The purpose of this study is to understand how Islam in Central Asia has responded to modernity and foreign incursions, starting with the initial Russian advances into the region and continuing through the Soviet period. The project particularly focuses on the late 19th century reformist Jadid movement, to explore its potential for influencing resurgent Islamic trends in the region today.

Islam in the Former Soviet Union: Islamic Leaders in Uzbekistan

This study identifies key Islamic leaders in Uzbekistan today. The study examines the geographic distribution of these leaders, any outside religious and political influences, their position in Uzbek society, and their relationship with government authorities. This study will effectively illuminate the nature of the influence that current Islamic leaders in Uzbekistan exert, or could potentially exert in the future, and the implications for the country’s future stability.

Islam in Rural Azerbaijan

This study examines trends in the development of Islam in rural Azerbaijan and their implications for the country’s future. The study assesses the nature and origin of predominant influences in Islam across the country, with the objective of a comprehensive overview of Islam in Azerbaijan, highlighting geographic components, foreign influences, prevailing ideologies, and key individuals, to ascertain what long-term role Islamic trends could play in the future of the country.

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