Protecting Nation, State and Government: ‘Traditional Islam’ in Azerbaijan

The article contributes to a better understanding of ‘Traditional Islam’ (TI), state-led project in Azerbaijan establish an alternative narrative promoting specific local Islam that builds on its non-political, non-sectarian and national features prevent ‘non-traditional’ religious variants from gaining popular traction. phenomenon has not appeared vacuum. First, functions stem Soviet-era anti-religious nationalities policies. Second, many aspects TI resemble counter-radicalisation initiatives worldwide. Finally, while introduced as means blocking radicalisation order protect Azerbaijan’s identity secular state, Traditional fact works extend state control over the domain thus development any religiously grounded dissent against authoritarian regime.