ABSTRACT
By using a broad definition of political Islam, this chapter explores the development of political manifestations of Islam in Central Asia by recollecting political development in Tsarist and Soviet times before turning to the post-Soviet religious mobilization. The main argument is that political Islam in Central Asia is best characterized as a moderate religious revival and limited political mobilization that has been increasingly securitized due to tightening authoritarianism. In the absence of a level playing field, Islamism could not emerge as a political potent force but in a context marked by inequalities and corruption, Islamic norms provide inspiration for living just and fair lives.
