| ID | 164147 |
| Title Proper | Only good jihadist is a dead jihadist |
| Other Title Information | Boko Haram and de-radicalization around Lake Chad |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | De Montclos, Marc-Antoine Pérouse |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | This article discusses the shortcomings of the “de-radicalization doctrine” in sub-Saharan Africa. The issues raised are illustrated by the war against Boko Haram, which involves Nigeria, Niger, Chad and Cameroon. Relying on interviews with security officers, insurgents, civil servants, displaced people, humanitarian workers and Muslim and Christian clerics in Nigeria, Niger and Chad since 2005, the investigation shows that the four states focused on repression rather than demobilisation programs in prison or outdoors. The Boko Haram crisis is mainly a story of mismanagement. The article thus challenges the assumptions of the “de-radicalization doctrine” in Muslim Africa South of the Sahara. First, attempts to de-radicalize jihadi terrorists tend to focus too much on religious fanaticism and the exegesis of the Quran. Secondly, they are neither feasible nor efficient. Finally, they obscure priorities that are more important to counter extremism and demobilize insurgents. |
| `In' analytical Note | Small Wars and Insurgencies Vol. 29, No.5-6; Oct-Dec 2018: p.863-885 |
| Journal Source | Small Wars and Insurgencies Vol: 29 No 5-6 |
| Key Words | Nigeria ; Cameroon ; Chad ; Niger ; Boko Haram ; De-radicalization |