Publication

This brief considers the structural and historical context within which Islamist fundamentalism flourishes in order to understand the outbreaks of religious violence in northern Nigeria caused by the militant Islamist group Boko Haram. The author first examines the influence of ethnicity, politics, economics, migration and violence on Boko Haram's rise and support. He then explains why the usual responses to Boko Haram - dialogue and violent suppression - are problematic and argues for a more holistic, long-term approach. In that sense, he highlights important factors to be considered when designing and implementing interventions aimed at ending the group’s acts of terrorism.