Columbia International Affairs Online: Working Papers

CIAO DATE: 10/2009

Islamic Peacemaking Since 9/11

David Smock, Qamar-ul Huda

January 2009

United States Institute of Peace

Abstract

* Muslims in general and Muslim leaders particularly have often been severely criticized for not more energetically condemning the violent acts of Muslim extremists.
* Violent extremists are on one edge of the Muslim community. They are counter-balanced by a growing movement of Muslim peacemakers.
* Equally as notable as Islamic militancy but less noted are Muslims' 1) widespread condemnation of terrorism and other violent acts; 2) promotion of interfaith dialogue; 3) education of Muslim youth and reeducation of extremist Muslims; and 4) promotion of peaceful conflict resolution.