Storm Clouds over Central Asia: Revival of the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU)?

Abstract

Government warnings, media commentary, and the recent bombings in Uzbekistan suggest that the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU) may be renascent. Despite these concerns, the evidence suggests that the threat presented by the IMU remains manageable. Not only does the IMU lack both popular support and military strength, but the United States, Russia, and China have shown surprising solidarity in opposing a revival of Central Asian terrorism. This article first discusses the IMU's origins, structure, training, and financing. It then provides a detailed description of its activities in Central Asian countries. Despite its name, the IMU's membership roster includes a large number on non-Uzbeks, and the organization has been militarily active in much of Central Asia. The next section analyzes the policies of Russia, China, and the United States toward the IMU. The only partially successful attempts at regional cooperation against the organization are then discussed. Finally, the article reviews the debate over the appropriate U.S. policies toward the IMU and Central Asia.­