1. The Women in Daesh: Deconstructing Complex Gender Dynamics in Daesh Recruitment Propaganda
- Author:
- The Carter Center
- Publication Date:
- 05-2017
- Content Type:
- Special Report
- Institution:
- The Carter Center
- Abstract:
- Since its inception, Daesh has been successfully recruiting women across national and ideological lines to assume key positions in advancing the organization’s objectives. According to recent estimates, out of 31,000 fighters within Daesh territories, almost one-fifth, roughly 6,200, are women. Yet, to date, research and policy focus on women’s involvement in Daesh has been scant. Several media accounts that have covered female participation tend to be alarmingly reductionist in their description of the roles women play in Daesh. These reports primarily categorize women as either passive victims, “Jihadi brides,” or subsidiary supporters of male guardians with negligible influence. This approach not only ignores the multiplicity of roles played by women to expand Daesh’s ideological and operational agenda, but also oversimplifies the motivations behind their decisions to join Daesh. Just like their male counterparts, women are complex human beings with conflicting aspirations, ideological leanings, and life struggles that inform the choices they make.
- Topic:
- Conflict Resolution, Gender Issues, and Terrorism
- Political Geography:
- Middle East and Global Focus