Identifying Islamist Parties Using Gunther and Diamond’s Typology

Raja M Ali Saleem

doi:10.1177/2158244014544288

Abstract

Recent democratization in the Muslim-majority countries (MMCs) has led to a surge in interest in the Islamist (or Islamic) parties. Research on these parties has, however, been plagued by the lack of agreement on identifying these parties. Analysis of various ways used to identify/define Islamist parties shows shortcomings. This article tries to resolve the conundrum by identifying these parties within a comparative framework, that is, Gunther and Diamond party typology. Two major types of Islamist parties are identified and placed within the Gunther and Diamond typology. This solution has two advantages. First, discussions on Islamist parties can now become more grounded, restricting analysts from labeling any conservative party in the MMCs as Islamist. Second, Islamist parties can be part of the general discussion on political parties in the literature, and inclination to regard them as singular or exceptional, because of their link with Islam, is discouraged.

Highlights

Islamist (sometimes called Islamic) parties are important political players in the Middle East and the wider Muslim world
Islamist parties are important political players in the Middle East and the wider Muslim world
Commitment to Islamic laws and Shariah no longer serve as the distinguishing features of the Islamist parties as Islamist parties of the past are toning down their religious rhetoric to broaden their appeal while new parties are touting their allegiance to Islam to entice the religious sections of the society

Summary

Introduction

Islamist (sometimes called Islamic) parties are important political players in the Middle East and the wider Muslim world. Keywords Islamist political parties, party typology, Muslim countries, democratization, Islam Gunther and Diamond’s typology is used to distinguish two major types of Islamist parties from the other political parties vying for power in the MMCs. Islamic or Islamist Parties

Results

Conclusion