Jihadism facts for kids
Jihadism (also called the jihadist movement) is a term used in Western countries to describe certain Islamist groups. These groups are seen by some military experts as being "rooted in Islam" and a threat to Western societies.
The word "jihadism" first appeared in news reports in South Asia. Western journalists started using it more often after the September 11 attacks in 2001.
What is Jihadism?
Jihadism refers to a type of Islamism that supports using violence to achieve its goals. These groups often believe they are fighting a "holy war" (known as jihad in Arabic) to defend Islam or establish an Islamic state.
Goals of Jihadist Groups
Jihadist groups often aim to:
- Remove non-Islamic influences from Muslim countries.
- Overthrow governments they see as corrupt or not truly Islamic.
- Establish a global caliphate, which is a single Islamic state ruled by religious law.
- Fight against countries they consider enemies of Islam, especially Western nations.
Key Beliefs of Jihadism
Jihadist groups often follow a very strict and extreme interpretation of Islamic teachings. They believe that:
- Violence is a necessary tool to achieve their religious and political goals.
- They are fighting against injustice and oppression.
- Their actions are a form of jihad, which they interpret as armed struggle.
Difference from Mainstream Islam
It is important to know that the beliefs and actions of jihadist groups are not shared by most Muslims around the world. Most Muslims believe that jihad mainly refers to a personal struggle to live a good life according to Islamic teachings, or defending oneself when attacked. They do not support violence against innocent people.
History of Jihadism
The ideas behind modern jihadism began to develop in the 20th century. However, the term "jihadism" became widely known after the September 11 attacks in 2001.
Origins in the 20th Century
Some of the ideas that led to modern jihadism grew from movements in the 20th century. These movements wanted to bring back what they saw as pure Islamic rule. They often felt that Muslim lands were being controlled or influenced too much by Western powers.
The Soviet-Afghan War
A major event that helped shape modern jihadism was the Soviet–Afghan War (1979-1989). During this war, many Muslim fighters, called mujahideen, came to Afghanistan to fight against the Soviet Union. They saw this as a jihad to protect Muslim lands. The United States and other countries supported these fighters. After the Soviets left, many of these fighters returned to their home countries or formed new groups. Some of these groups later became involved in global jihadist movements.
Rise of Al-Qaeda
One of the most well-known jihadist groups is al-Qaeda. It was founded by Osama bin Laden in the late 1980s. Al-Qaeda became famous for its attacks on Western targets, including the September 11 attacks in the United States. These attacks led to a global "War on Terror."
The Islamic State (ISIL)
More recently, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), also known as ISIS or Daesh, emerged. This group gained control of large areas in Iraq and Syria. ISIL also promoted a very extreme form of jihadism and carried out many violent acts. They declared a caliphate in the lands they controlled.
Impact and Response
Jihadist groups have had a major impact on global politics and security. Their actions have led to conflicts, loss of life, and increased security measures around the world.
Global Efforts Against Jihadism
Many countries work together to fight against jihadist groups. These efforts include:
- Military actions to stop their spread.
- Intelligence gathering to prevent attacks.
- Working to stop the funding of these groups.
- Programs to counter their extreme ideas and prevent people from joining them.
Importance of Education
Education plays a key role in fighting against extreme ideas. By understanding the differences between mainstream religious beliefs and extremist views, young people can make informed choices and resist harmful ideologies.
Images for kids
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Afghan mujahideen praying in the Kunar Province, Afghanistan (1987)
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Osama bin Laden and Ayman al-Zawahiri of al-Qaeda have promoted the overthrow of secular governments.
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U.S. President Ronald Reagan meeting with Afghan mujahideen leaders in the Oval Office in 1983
See also
In Spanish: Yihadismo para niños
