The project has two main dimensions: the first is theoretical and the second is empirical, focusing on three case studies. The theoretical aspect of the project examines two main sets of questions:
- How the general concepts of extremism and moderation, and the associated concept of radicalisation, are understood in the Russian context. How is radicalisation linked to identity politics (ethnicity, nationalism and religion) and radical ideological movements?
- How are these concepts moderation, extremism, and radicalisation applied in discourses and policies towards Muslim communities in Russia? What are the presumed internal and external influences? What are the comparisons and links with élite discourse in other European countries with significant Muslim communities, such as the UK and France?
The empirical aspect of the project examines how these general concepts and approaches help to illuminate and explain developments in regions of Russia where there exist sizeable Muslim communities. The three case studies chosen include:
- The city of Moscow, where it is estimated that there are 1-2 million Muslims, representing at least 10% of the population. How is this population understood, categorised and politically integrated?
- Tatarstan, which has an ethnic Tatar Muslim plurality and which is often taken to be the best example of the influence of moderate Islam. How are Muslim interests and concerns managed and supported in this context; how is the general attitude of moderation preserved and perpetuated?
- Dagestan, which is regularly taken to be the region with the greatest potential danger, apart from Chechnya, of Islamist radicalisation. How is this phenomenon understood in the Dagestani context and how are policies defined to counter such dynamics?