Understanding the Process of Radicalization: A Case Study of Pakistani Madrasa Females

Abstract

The escalation of global terrorism in the 21st century has precipitated the increased scrutiny of the Islamic community, with scholars suggesting that the concept of Jihad engenders extremist mentalities, culminating in violent radicalization. This study endeavors to undertake a rigorous, nuanced exploration of the multifaceted factors contributing to the radicalization of religious women in Pakistan, employing a gender-sensitive lens to elucidate the intricate interplay between the development of socio-religious identity, stigmatization arising from liberal sections of society, and the ensuing identity negotiation processes. The researcher posits that the enablers of radicalization operate in a complex interdependent manner, either sequentially or concurrently, necessitating the establishment of an intricate nexus between radicalization, in-group formation, stigmatization, and identity negotiation. Employing qualitative research methodologies, this scholarly investigation seeks to discern the extent to which social identity, stigmatization, and identity negotiation act as driving forces that impel religiously affiliated Pakistani women towards radicalization. In an effort to gather comprehensive data, the researcher conducted extensive fieldwork, visiting a diverse array of religious institutions and engaging in in-depth interviews with affiliated women. The collected data was subsequently subjected to meticulous transcription, interpretation, and analysis, unveiling a complex tapestry of interconnected factors. The findings reveal that Pakistani women who embrace a religious identity and affiliate with religious institutions experience stigmatization from liberal segments of society, which engenders multifarious forms of discrimination, exclusion, and marginalization across social, educational, and economic domains. Consequently, religiously oriented women grapple with their stigmatized identity, selectively engaging with specific socio-religious environments that foster the adoption of explicit ideologies and threat perceptions, ultimately contributing to their radicalization. This heightened vulnerability renders them susceptible to recruitment by extremist organizations. In light of these findings, the researcher advocates for the implementation of inclusive mechanisms designed to facilitate social cohesion and understanding. By dismantling the stigma surrounding these women and fostering their active, efficacious participation within the societal milieu, it becomes possible to mitigate the factors that contribute to radicalization and promote a more inclusive approach.