The Nature of Civil Conflict and the Rise of Islamic Militancy in Somalia

Abstract

In the complex tapestry of global security concerns, the intersection of civil conflict and the rise of Islamic militancy in specific regions have garnered increasing attention. This paper focuses on the situation in Somalia, a country long riven by internal war and now struggling with the rise of Islamic militarism. The country's history has been marred by prolonged periods of internal strife characterized by political instability, clan rivalries, and state collapse. Against this backdrop, Islamic militant groups, notably Al--Shabaab, have risen to prominence, exploiting the power vacuum and societal grievances to propagate their extremist ideology. Therefore, this paper aims to unravel the nuanced interplay between the nature of civil conflict and the ascent of Islamic militancy, shedding light on the historical, socioeconomic, and governance-related elements that have facilitated this convergence. By examining these dynamics, this paper underscores the imperative of effectively addressing root causes to mitigate the influence of Islamic militancy in Somalia.