Islamic identity among muslim youth in Serbia : an analytical study

Abstract

This study investigates the causes of the weakening and loss of Islamic identity among Muslim youth in Serbia. Such an investigation entails a prior understanding of the factors underlying the weakening and loss of religious identity and their causal relationship with the fundamental elements in the building of religious identity among youth, and these factors can be categorized into internal and external. Hence, factors that influence the weakening of religious identity and eventual loss are, in most cases, the same factors that influence its building. In regards to the research methods adopted in this study, the researcher utilizes archival qualitative research into relevant books, articles and other written material and the qualitative survey research methods, which involves interviews with Muslim youth in Serbia and their teachers and other staff responsible for students’ discipline; the study thus analyzes reports and views of young Muslim students and opinions of their lecturers of Islamic subjects. The methods to be used in the study pertain to Islamic studies and humanities. Moreover, there are instances of comparative approaches, especially when the interviews conducted within the area of southwestern Serbia, known as Sandzak, will be compared with the interviews conducted in northeastern Serbia and southern Serbia. Interviews have been conducted with lecturers, boarding school governesses, and students at Islamic high schools or madrasah, and lecturers and students in public general high schools. The findings of the interviews highlight the realities of today’s situation regarding Islamic identity among Muslim youth and the challenges they face in maintaining their religious principles and identity. The youth are reasonably well aware of their religious identity and principles. However, they also face challenges such as exposure to alcohol, betting and gambling outlets, and negative influences from media and entertainment. The findings also reveal significant influence of Religious Education teachers in general high schools and Islamic high schools pertaining to the students' commitment to practicing Islam, their understanding of Islamic teachings, and the challenges they face in implementing those teachings in their daily lives. Another significant factor found from the interviews is the influence of family, community, and religious institutions in shaping the youth's religious identity and beliefs. Finally, the study identifies a contrast in perspectives regarding the strength or weakening of Islamic identity among Muslim youth, where some believe there is strengthening of identity through religious education, while others express concerns about the challenges and influences that may lead to a loss of Islamic identity among the youth.