Features of the Development and Spread of Islamic Fundamentalism in the States of Central Asia

The article analyzes the influence of Islamic fundamentalism on socio-political processes in Central Asia.The key factors that contributed to the development of this phenomenon, including economic, political and cultural changes, have been identified.In particular, it is noted that the collapse of the Soviet Union created new political and economic conditions faced by the countries of Central Asia, which contributed to the emergence of radical sentiments among the population.One of the important events that influenced the development of Islamic fundamentalism was the Afghan war, which served as a catalyst for the radicalization of Islamic groups in the region.As many young people from Central Asia joined the Afghan mujahideen, returning home with new, radical beliefs.This was one of the reasons for the spread of Islamic fundamentalism, in particular in Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan, which was perceived as a form of protest against authoritarian regimes and social injustice.The article also discusses the activities of organizations such as Hizb ut-Tahrir, the Islamic Jihad Union and other Islamic movements that actively promote the ideas of Islamic governance.It is noted that these organizations use religious narratives to attract supporters, often in the context of repressive regimes that restrict freedom of speech and political rights.This pushes certain segments of society to search for alternative forms of self-expression, including religious fundamentalism.The geopolitical context of Islamic fundamentalism, in particular its influence on the foreign policy of Central Asian countries, is also studied.It is emphasized that effective counteraction to this phenomenon requires joint efforts, both on the part of governments, civil society and the international community.