ISLAMISM AND JIHADISM IN THE CAUCASUS: A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO THE ANALYSIS OF RADICAL MOVEMENTS

Abstract

The article aims to analyze Islamic jihadism in the Caucasus region, within the framework of which it forms an interdisciplinary theoretical framework. The latter combines four theories: the clash of civilizations, social constructivism, social movements and transnationalism. The work reflects an attempt to free itself from narrow disciplinary frameworks by applying these concepts in a new way and through a complex discussion. It shows that Caucasian jihadism is not one dimensional and, in addition to a resistance movement, is a form of civilizational protest, a component of a global network and the result of identity transformation. The complex analysis also includes the method of digital ethnography, which is used to study the online activity, communication and mobilization of transnational radical groups.