The focus includes jihadism in the Indian Ocean region, women and children’s role in militancy, and the de-radicalization projects initiated in both Western liberal societies and Muslim majority states.

De-radicalisation & counter-radicalisation strategies

We focus on comparative analyses of radicalisation, counter-radicalisation and de-radicalisation processes in the Indian Ocean Rim countries and suggest policy alternatives.

We conduct research and organise workshops, seminars and international conferences to share ideas and best practices among academics, societal groups, and policymakers in South East Asia, South Asia, Middle East and Africa. Results are communicated through publications, for example, S. Yasmeen and A. Zahir, Radicalisation, Counter-radicalisation and De-radicalisation, World Scientific Publishing, forthcoming in 2020.

The Centre for Muslim States and Societies also signed a Deed of Standing Offer in 2018 to provide training to Australian Federal Police on Islamic awareness.

Jihadi Narratives: Jihadism in the Maldives

Azim Zahir is focusing on the emergence and evolution of radicalisation in the Maldives and the contributing local and global factors.

Jihadi narratives in Pakistan

Professor Samina Yasmeen assesses the transformation in jihadi narratives among Pakistani groups. She is currently exploring the impact on these narratives following the Indian government’s decision to change the special status of Kashmir in August 2019.

Women and jihad

We aim to develop an understanding of the role Muslim women play as agents of radicalisation or de-radicalisation in contemporary world, and its impact on human rights with a focus on that of women and children.

For example, we explore women’s radicalisation and involvement in terrorist groups within Tunisia and surrounding countries. Researchers include Professor Samina Yasmeen.