ICG says central Asian states fueling militant threat, not fighting it
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 20 January 2015 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, ICG says central Asian states fueling militant threat, not fighting it, 20 January 2015, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/54e1a3e515.html [accessed 19 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
January 20, 2015
By RFE/RL
The Crisis Group (ICG) says the five Central Asian countries need to develop a credible, coordinated action plan to counter the threats posed by Islamic State militants and "growing radicalism" in the region.
In the January 20 report, "Syria Calling: Radicalisation in Central Asia," the international think-tank said between 2,000 and 4,000 Central Asians have left for areas held by Islamic State mliitants or otherwise support the extremist group's cause.
The ICG said Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan – crippled by corruption and poor governance and policing – have done little to address a threat as intricate as radical Islam.
Instead, they are fuelling further radicalization by curtailing civil liberties and initiating security crackdowns, the report said.
ICG urged the governments to improve security coordination, as well as to liberalize religious laws and provide greater economic opportunities for young people.
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
