What happens when centuries-old interpretations of Islamic governance continue to shape political systems in today’s world, often at odds with democracy, human rights, and gender equality? Across regions, from Iran to Afghanistan and beyond, movements draw on Islamic political jurisprudence as a foundation for their authority, yet questions remain about its relevance and adaptability in a modern, pluralistic society.

Can traditional Islamic political concepts evolve to meet the values of the present day?

To explore this important question, we recently had the honor of speaking with Mr. Ahrar Ramizpoor, a distinguished scholar of Islamic and human rights law, President of the World Anti-Extremism Network (WAEN), and a former Human Rights Officer with the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). With decades of experience in legal scholarship, civil society, and peacebuilding efforts across the region, Mr. Ramizpoor brings a rare and nuanced perspective to this conversation.

If you’re someone interested in the intersection of religion, governance, and human rights, or if you’ve ever wondered whether Islamic political thought can coexist with democratic values, this podcast is a must-listen.

The rise of extremist groups and radicalization in Afghanistan and the broader region has deep and complex roots, shaped by a confluence of historical, political, and social factors. The Soviet invasion in the 1970s and the subsequent war with the Afghan Mujahideen laid the groundwork for the emergence of militant factions, as both external powers and local warlords fostered an environment ripe for radical ideologies. The fall of the Soviet Union and the power vacuum that followed exacerbated this situation, leading to the rise of the Taliban in the 1990s, who imposed a strict interpretation of Islamic law. Over the years, regional conflicts, foreign interventions, and ongoing instability have further fueled radicalization, with extremist groups exploiting local grievances, ethnic divisions, and economic hardships. The interplay of these factors has created a fertile ground for the growth of militant ideologies and the persistence of extremist groups in Afghanistan and its neighboring regions.

On 15 Aug 2021, the Afghan Taliban took power once again in Afghanistan that welcomed by the entire Islamic radical movements worldwide. Reports indicate close collaboration between the Taliban and other extremist groups like Al-Qaeda, Central Asian Islamic groups, TTP, and others in the region.

In this podcast, we will explore the extremist and radical groups in Afghanistan and its neighboring regions with Mr. Imtiaz Ahmad Baloch who is an Islamic-based journalist and researcher specializing in security and conflict in Iran and Pakistan.

What lies behind the stark educational divide in Afghanistan, where madrassas outnumber schools and rote learning prevails over true understanding? In this powerful episode of the Scholarly Podcast, we explore the influence of madrassas on extremism and gender dynamics in Taliban-controlled regions. Why are madrassa students often stigmatized, and how does their limited curriculum contribute to a narrow interpretation of Islam? Our guest, Dr. Hassan Abbas, Professor of International Relations at the Near East South Asia (NESA) Center in Washington, DC, and WAEN board member delves into these pressing questions, revealing the impact of male-dominated madrassas on attitudes toward women and societal control.

Listen in for a conversation that challenges perceptions and ignites discussion. Subscribe now to stay informed on today’s critical issues—your understanding fuels meaningful change!

In this episode, we will delve into the complex world of extremist mindsets. We will explore how ideologies, religion, social and political influences, and digital media impact radicalization, and will discuss effective strategies for countering and de-radicalizing extremists.

Our guest is Dr. Casey Babb, a Senior Fellow with the Macdonald-Laurier Institute (MLI) based in Ottawa, Canada. Dr. Babb has made significant academic contributions to several institutions and universities both in Canada and abroad. His research on terrorism and the future of warfare has been published in journals and books in Canada, the US, and Europe. Additionally, his commentary on terrorism-related issues has been sought by many of the world’s largest news outlets, including CNN, BBC, FOX News, CTC News, and numerous others.

What defines totalitarianism, and how can its tenets be found in democratic societies? In this exclusive podcast, WAEN hosts Dr. Ali Salman, the founder and CEO of the Islam and Liberty Network and head of policy research at the Institute of Market Economy (PRIME) in Islamabad. Dr. Salman shares insights into a unique definition of totalitarianism that isn’t typically covered in textbooks, revealing how elements of it can manifest even in democratic governments. We also explore the intersection of religious beliefs in oppressive regimes, examining how individuals and communities maintain their faith in the face of oppression. Discover the answers to these pressing questions in this thought-provoking discussion!

Mr. Mustafa Akyol recently honored our podcast with a profound discussion on extremism and its distorted association with Islam. In this episode, Mr. Akyol reveals how extremists distort Islamic teachings to justify violence, using Iran as a case study to highlight the harmful impact on perceptions of Muslim societies while calling for tolerance and respect for differing beliefs—key tenets of true Islam.

Mustafa Akyol, a prominent Muslim modernist and reformer, is a Senior Fellow at the Cato Institute’s Center for Global Liberty and Prosperity and a senior lecturer at Boston College. He has made significant contributions to public policy, Islam, and modernity, and his work has appeared in renowned outlets like The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, BBC, and CNN.

Authoritarian Rule: Impacts on Society

In an era where power runs unchecked, authoritarianism thrives, deeply embedding itself in societies, eroding freedoms, and shaping lives without accountability. In this riveting episode, we are joined by Dr. Tom G. Palmer, Executive Vice President for International Programs at Atlas Network and a renowned advocate for freedom. With a career dedicated to promoting libertarian ideals through his influential writings, speeches, and books, Dr. Palmer is a leading voice in the fight against authoritarianism.

In this exclusive episode, we dive deep into understanding authoritarianism, its devastating impacts on societies, and the various forms of totalitarianism that persist globally, whether overtly or subtly. We also explore several case studies to analyze the levels of authoritarianism and discuss how liberal democracy is under threat in the face of rising totalitarian regimes.

Listeners will gain fresh perspectives on these pressing global issues, perspectives that aren’t easily found in books or traditional publications.

Tune in now to gain a deeper understanding of authoritarianism and its far-reaching effects on society. Don't forget to subscribe to the Scholarly Podcast for updates on upcoming episodes with more experienced and thought-provoking guests!