National survey on perception towards radicalisation, extremism and terrorism among students of higher secondary schools and higher education institutions in the Maldives
Date
2024
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Abstract
Description
Recent terrorist attacks in the Maldives and in the neighboring Srilanka sheds light to the fact that educated youth are vulnerable to radicalisation, religious extremism, and terrorism. This study therefore, aims to determine perceptions of students in HSec Schools and HEIs towards radicalization, religious extremism and terrorism.
The respondents believed that political dissonance is the main cause of violent attacks in the Maldives. They highlighted that politicians promote their own self-interest and personal agendas causing mistrust and, on occasion, a source of frustration that results in violent reactions. Additionally, the perception of some respondents is that there exists a degree of neglect at policy level as it relates to religion and that this could also act as a catalyst for violent radicalisation.
Many respondents considered themselves moderate, however, they differed regarding levels of religiosity within Maldivian society. Opinions were evenly divided with 33% respectively considering society to be moderate, liberal or extreme. They also observed that religious extremism and liberal views were prevalent across society. To elaborate on this point, respondents asserted that liberal views actually pose more of a danger to the Maldives than religious extremism.
There was consensus that violent terrorist attacks can never be justified. A majority of those interviewed stated that anyone causing harm to others cannot be considered a true Muslim. They justified their positions by highlighting Islam as a religion of peace that does not promote violence. Many respondents also highlighted social media as the main vehicle of exposure to radicalisation, extremism and terrorism. Although a minority of them noted a lack of trust towards some religious scholars, this was considered inconsequential within the wider context of religious education received from reliable sources throughout their formative education.
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Social Sciences | އިޖުތިމާޢީ ޢިލްމު