Muslim Youth and Challenges of Development in the Globalized World

Abstract

Youths are the shining hopes of a society.  Through them the society realizes its hope and aspiration. This is because they are endowed with natural qualities which enable them to face challenges.  They have the energy and power to explore possibilities.  They have courage to make sacrifice for the realization of societal dreams.  The Ottoman Empire which was at the centre of interactions between the Eastern and Western worlds for over six centuries was dissolved in the aftermath of World War I; the collapse of the empire led to the emergence of the new political order in Turkey itself, as well as the creation of modern Balkan and Middle Eastern states.[1] This historic development marked the beginning of degeneration for the Muslim World which had to contend with endless challenges up till today. The challenges became more acute following the emergence of the concept of globalization within the last couple of decades. Thus, Muslim Youths, instead of being the pioneers in educational and cultural development, they are rather, the perceived focal point of 'radicalization' and 'international terrorism'.   What is the definition of the Muslim Youths and how can they be contextualized in this modern globalized world?  These and some other related issues are subjects of analysis in this paper.

Keywords: Muslim Youths, Islamic history, Globalization, Radicalization, International Terrorism and Challenges of Development

*Teaches Law of Banking and Insurance at University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria and Director, Iqra’a Academy Foundation, Lagos, Nigeria.

[1] Alan, M., Nature and Empire in Ottoman Egypt, Cambridge University Press, (2011),  p. 7.