Daesh Ideology and Women’s Rights in the Maghreb
A Reaction to Homegrown Modernity
Analyses the gender dynamics of Daesh ideology in the Maghreb
- Analyses Daesh ideology as a gender-based project
- Explores the Maghreb, a marginalized region within the field
- Examines women’s legal rights as a form of homegrown modernity
Based on extensive fieldwork data, Daesh Ideology and Women’s Rights in the Maghreb argues that Daesh’s radicalized gender regime does not only target Western modernity; it also targets a homegrown modernity in the Maghreb. While the former is historically built on the exclusion of religion, the latter is built on the reform of Islamic law. Women’s legal rights in the Maghreb constitute a solid entry point to examine and explain the rise of Daesh ideology in the Maghreb. While the book situates various informants within a larger political history, it prioritises conceptual ideology and aims to understand the depth and effect of this ideology.
Acknowledgements
Note on Transliteration
1. Introduction: Delimiting the Gender Aspect of Daesh in the Maghreb
2. The Historical Context
3. Gender: A Foundational Pillar of Daesh Ideology
4. Impact of and Reaction to Daesh Ideology
5. Daesh in the Maghreb: A Homegrown Reaction to Modernity
6. Conclusion: Daesh in the Maghreb: Looking Ahead
Appendix 1: Interviews
Appendix 2: Sample Reports from Focus Group
References
Index
This is an innovative book in the study of gender and political groups. Sadiqi addresses the puzzling question of what pushed young men and women to risk their lives and willingly join Daesh. Combining a thorough historical and cultural analysis of the Maghreb with interviews, the book offers unique insights into Daesh ideology and how it was received – an invaluable contribution and a must read!
Overall, with solid references, a systematic argument, and abundant resources drawn from primary data, including ethnographic fieldwork and interviews, and documentation from Daesh’s magazines, Sadiqi examines Daesh ideology from a fresh perspective through a decolonising lens. Her research approach, particularly the systematic presentation of informants in tabular form and the inclusion of two appendices featuring interview excerpts and focus group discussion reports, provides valuable lessons for emerging and established scholars.
