Dr. Hamdy Attalla will give a lecture in our 'Lecture series' in Dubai Thursday 23 Feb. 2017 during the common break 12:30 to 1:30 in RL-1-93.

1- The presentation of his title: Transformation of Islamic discourse in Africa: Boko Haram versus the State in Nigeria

2- Short description of his presentation:

There is a two-fold fundamental issue in the African countries: The first is reflected in the “religious movement for renewal,” which has as its purpose the linking of faith with its original roots. The second is related to “spreading the mission where Islam is considered to be the widest-spread religion.” This trend may be related to Islam’s capability to appeal and adapt to African reality, as well as its emphasis on the values of justice and equality, and that it is perceived as a non-foreign religion. In the post-independent era, the ruling elite in both regions attempted to neutralize the changing religious trends by imposing global constitutional strategies, which tended to separate the states from religion by emphasizing the freedom of belief. It was clear in the official religious discourse coordinated by the concerned countries that it was designed to suit the political requirements of the ruling elite.

However, the rise of radical Islam organization such as Al Shabab in Somalia and Boko Haram in Nigeria has led many scholars to adopt a very simplistic approach through linking it to al-Qaeda . On the contrary, there is a dire need to have a different narrative about the root causes of intellectual and religious extremism in Africa. What developments might have triggered the emergence of violent Islamist groups such as Boko Haram during the last decade? There was always a clash between the moderate Islamic teachings and the more militant interpretation of the Qur'an. The group's official name, according to its manifesto, is Jamaiatu Ahlis Sunna Lidda'awata Wal-Jihad, which translates as "Association of Sunnis for the Propagation of Islam and Jihad." Its main objective is the "application of Sharia law throughout Nigeria through kidnappings, bombings and suicide attacks aimed at the United Nations, churches and symbols of the federal government such as police stations."

How can we understand Boko Haram in the Nigerian context? What are the driving factors behind the escalation of violence and extremism? What are the main sources of recruitments and finance? Why the slogan of "Islam is the solution" found a receptive ear in the Nigerian example?

3 - Short bio:

Hamdy A. Hassan, Ph.D, is a Professor at College of Humanities and Social Sciences , Zayed University in Dubai. He is also a member of the advisory board of the Swedish Network of Peace, Conflict and Development Research. In 1999, Professor Hassan was granted the Egyptian State award in political science for his book Issues in the African Political Systems published in Arabic by the Centre for African Future Studies, Cairo. From 2001- 2005, Professor Hassan served as an elect Vice President of the African Association of Political Science (AAPS), based in Pretoria, South Africa. He is the founder and director of the Centre for African Future Studies, Cairo, since 1996. From 1999 – 2000 he served as a Director of the UNISCO Human Rights Chair Located in Jordan. His research focuses on the democratization and development in Africa and the Arab world. He has published many books and articles in both Arabic and English including:

(2015). Israeli Penetration of Africa. Doha: Forum for Arab & International Relation.

(2013). Renewal of Islamic Discourse In Africa. Cairo: Dar Elhelal.

(2011). the African Union and its New Security Architecture. Abu Dahbi, UAE:

Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research.

(2011). Regional Integration in Africa: Bridging the North-Sub-Saharan Divide.

Pretoria: Africa Institute of South Africa.