Kosovo launched a program on Friday aimed at de-radicalising its jailed jihadists, including lectures in prisons by moderate imams.
More than 90 percent of Kosovo’s 1.8 million inhabitants are Muslims who practise a moderate form of Islam. But over the past few years more than 300 Kosovo nationals have gone to join jihadists fighting in Syria and Iraq. About 50 of them have been killed.
It is believed that they fell under the influence of a group of local imams educated in Arab countries that practise a radical interpretation of Islam.
Of the 100 or so jihadists who have returned to Kosovo, around 80 are currently being detained, either found guilty of crimes or awaiting trial.
The most recent guest for my @NYUCGA Global Leaders series was @TeutaSahatqija of the Consulate General of Kosovo in NY, where we discussed Kosovo’s role in deradicalization efforts and the broader issue of radicalization: https://t.co/rY145b1MWj
— AlonBenMeir (@AlonBenMeir) December 22, 2017
The justice ministry said Friday it had reached a deal with the Islamic Community of Kosovo (BIK) which will allow moderate imams to give the detainees religious classes.
“I am convinced that organising of religious lectures for prisoners will increase awareness among them about the dangers of religious radicalism,” Justice Minister Abelard Tahiri said.
A total of 20 imams have been selected for the task after having passed a security check.
