Islamism vs. Jihadism

Attribute	Islamism	Jihadism
Definition	Islamism is a political ideology that seeks to establish Islamic law and governance in society.	Jihadism is a militant ideology that justifies the use of violence to achieve political goals in the name of Islam.
Goals	To create Islamic states governed by Sharia law.	To establish a global Islamic caliphate through violent means.
Methods	Political activism, social reform, and participation in democratic processes.	Terrorism, guerrilla warfare, and violent attacks against perceived enemies.
Supporters	Some Islamists may support non-violent means of achieving their goals.	Jihadists are typically more radical and willing to use violence to achieve their objectives.

Definition

Islamism is a political ideology that seeks to establish Islamic law, or Sharia, as the basis of governance in Muslim-majority countries. It often involves a desire to create an Islamic state or caliphate. Jihadism, on the other hand, is a more militant and extremist interpretation of Islam that justifies the use of violence, including terrorism, to achieve its goals. While Islamism can be non-violent and focus on political activism, Jihadism is inherently violent and seeks to spread its ideology through force.

Goals

The goals of Islamism typically revolve around implementing Sharia law, promoting Islamic values, and creating a society based on Islamic principles. Islamists may seek to participate in the political process to achieve these goals, such as through elections or advocacy. Jihadism, on the other hand, aims to establish a global Islamic caliphate through violent means. Jihadists believe in waging holy war, or jihad, against perceived enemies of Islam, including Western powers and secular governments.

Methods

Islamists often use peaceful means to achieve their objectives, such as participating in elections, forming political parties, or engaging in advocacy and education. They may seek to influence society and government through non-violent activism and persuasion. Jihadists, on the other hand, resort to violence and terrorism to advance their agenda. They justify acts of violence as legitimate forms of jihad, or holy war, against those they perceive as enemies of Islam.

Support

Islamism can attract support from a wide range of individuals, including those who seek to promote Islamic values, uphold traditional beliefs, or resist perceived Western influence. Islamists may garner support from religious leaders, political parties, and grassroots movements. Jihadism, on the other hand, tends to appeal to a smaller, more radicalized segment of the population. Jihadists often recruit followers through extremist ideologies, online propaganda, and social networks.

Legitimacy

Islamism can operate within the bounds of existing legal and political systems, seeking to influence government policies and societal norms through lawful means. While some Islamist groups may be considered controversial or radical, they often operate within the framework of established institutions. Jihadism, on the other hand, operates outside the boundaries of legality and morality. Jihadist groups engage in acts of terrorism, violence, and extremism that are universally condemned by governments and religious authorities.

Global Impact

Islamism has had a significant impact on politics and society in many Muslim-majority countries. Islamist parties have gained power through elections, implemented Sharia law in some regions, and influenced government policies on social issues. While some Islamist movements have been peaceful and democratic, others have been repressive and authoritarian. Jihadism, on the other hand, has had a more disruptive and destructive impact on a global scale. Jihadist groups like al-Qaeda and ISIS have carried out terrorist attacks, destabilized regions, and caused widespread fear and insecurity.