ABSTRACT
The chapter analyzes Hamas’ conceptions of political order. It identifies two different stages of political order. The first stage of political order (2005–2007) was characterized by a relatively clear commitment to a civil state based on pluralism and democratic elements. The second stage, which emerged in Gaza in 2007 and lasts until today, is characterized by a strong security sector and shows authoritarian elements. To secure this political order, Hamas has institutionalized its core norm of resistance and incorporated it into the state structure in terms of internal security and defense. This enables the Sunni organization to remain in power.
