Countering Extremism in the North Caucasus: From Conflict Management Strategy to Post-Conflict Integration

Introduction. The article studies extremism in the North Caucasus and analyzes the subjects, sources, and main reasons for the escalation of armed violence and radicalization. The author focuses on examining the Russian experience of regional policy, which made it possible to move in the North Caucasus from a strategy of conflict management and forceful measures to counter terrorism and extremism to post-conflict integration. Literature review. The author discusses empirical and theoretical sources relevant to the topic and objectives of the study. Methods. The article uses the method of qualitative diachronic analysis based on the collection and interpretation of data obtained from official documents and secondary sources. Analysis. Although transnational Islamist groups share common goals of global jihad and Islamization, they may differ in discourses and methods that facilitate the indoctrination of extremist ideas in the North Caucasus, which is why Russia since the mid-1990s has been using force against jihadism at its local and regional levels. To reduce radicalization and strengthen the integration of Muslims into Russian society, a conflict management strategy was adopted, including anti-terrorist operations; diplomatic efforts in the Muslim world to optimize Russia’s multi-confessional image; and a large-scale policy of supporting Russian Muslim leaders and their traditional communities. Domestic policy proclaims Islam to be a traditional religion protected by the state and foundational to the identity of the multinational Russian people. Results. The current integration policy in the North Caucasus serves as a tool for countering and preventing extremism–proactively influencing the factors and conditions of radicalization through a set of measures aimed at forming regional elites, economic support via interbudgetary transfers and development programs, promoting tolerance and inclusion, and organizing informational activities.