Mediatization of Religion in Kyrgyzstan: Diffusion of Religious Authority and Changing Perceptions of Religion

Abstract

This article explores the media’s role in facilitating religious change in Kyrgyzstan. Taking Stig Hjarvard’s theory of mediatization as its point of departure, it goes on to examine how his thesis works when applied to the case of Islam in Kyrgyzstan. It argues that the media facilitates religious transformation in Kyrgyzstan by redefining the power constellation between various religious actors and bridging the gap between ethnic and religious identities, mainly through language. By reinforcing people’s religious identities, the media creates more intricate ways for Kyrgyzstan’s Muslims to relate to each other.