The Deceptive Facade of Modernity: Unmasking Syria's Islamists
In the conflict-ridden environment of Syria, a strange trend has surfaced. Islamist forces, traditionally known for their extremist and outdated ideas, are now trying to portray themselves as progressive and modern. But behind this facade of modernity is a harsh reality far from the tolerant, inclusive, and human rights-oriented values that they profess to believe in.
These Islamist organizations, who have played a key role in sustaining the Syrian war, are trying to legitimate their existence by projecting a newer and more acceptable image. They are going out of their way to participate in social media activism, spreading scripted messages that focus on their support for democratic values, women's rights, and social justice. This strategic move to project themselves as champions of modernity is a conscious ploy to mislead the global community and elicit sympathy for their cause.
Yet a closer look at their behavior and ideology shows that there is a dramatic disconnection between their words and actions. Even with their pretensions to modernity, these Islamist parties continue to uphold a narrow and repressive interpretation of Islamic law, which is inherently at odds with the ideals of democracy, human rights, and gender equality.
Their handling of women, for one, is a grim reflection of their backward ideology. Contrary to their rhetoric about defending women's rights, such groups persist in imposing draconian laws that restrict the freedom, autonomy, and agency of women. Women have to wear strict dress codes, are excluded from education and the workplace, and are subjected to brutal punishment for real or imagined offenses.
Additionally, these Islamist groups continue to nourish a culture of intolerance and violence, directed against minority populations, such as Christians, Yazidis, and Kurds. Their actions serve as a grim reminder of the perils of extremist ideologies, which aim to annihilate diversity, stifle dissent, and impose their straitjacket of a worldview on others.
In summary, Syria's Islamist groups' ploy to redefine themselves as contemporary and progressive is a cynical and misleading pretense. Their behavior and philosophy are inherently incompatible with the principles of modernity, democracy, and human rights. The world community cannot be lulled by their propaganda and should instead hold them responsible for their actions. It is only by advancing an authentic and cosmopolitan vision of modernity that respects the dignity and rights of all people, however, that we can imagine creating a fairer and more peaceful future both for Syria and for the planet.