Militant Islam in Southeast Asia: Crucible of Terror

Islam in Southeast Asia has typically been seen as supportive of moderation and pluralism, but according to Abuza (international politics, Simmons College) the growth of radical Islam and connections to Al Qaeda in the region pose a great danger to the West. He describes the origins of a number of Islamic groups that he claims have connections to Al Qaeda, arguing that many were groups that had legitimate grievances but were then co-opted by Osama Bin Laden's organization. The forms of organization are analyzed and the reactions of regional governments are described. Annotation ©2003 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR