ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the emergence, expansion and evolution of the Islamic State group in South, Central and Southeast Asia. It analyses how the Islamic State impacted the dynamics of militancy in these regions as it attempted to consume or challenge the existing militant groups on both military and ideological fronts. The chapter assesses state responses to counter the Islamic State threat as well as the impact of intra-state rivalries and the lack of multilateral mechanisms to address violent extremism in Asia. Drawing on extensive field work in the region and interviews with various stakeholders over the past few years, the chapter brings to light the challenges the Islamic State poses and the group’s future and evolving strategy in Asia.
