The development of the global system of interconnected computer networks that we generally call the Internet has revolutionized the world of communications and transformed the society, economy, and private lives of billions of individuals.
Even though the Internet still remains largely a Western phenomenon that depends on its users’ financial situation, language (most communication is still in English), and technological skills, the Internet and related technologies and cell phones have rapidly spread to all parts of the world. Internet cafés that provide their customers with access to the Internet are a common future and a meeting place for an expanding number of users all over the world. People who do not have access to the Internet are also indirectly affected by the rise of the “network society”. With the development of the internet, which facilitates information sharing and places the user in a more influential position as a producer of information, it has become more interactive, and its users can communicate to a greater extent with a growing number of users all over the world by taking part in online discussions or by setting up their own web pages or blogs (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok).
On the one hand, the internet has been presented as an opportunity and as supporting democracy and critical discussions in the third world, but on the other hand, it is evident that the technology also is a problem for those in power, since it can be used to question authority and the established order of society. Censure and conflicts over media use are still common topics in, for example, the Middle East and other countries located in the so-called third world, and even though a growing number of religious authorities have started to use the Internet and satellite television to promote their ideas, the new media are still viewed as a double-edged sword that can provide sorrow as well as prosperity. For example, it has become more difficult for political regimes to control public media, and thus alternative views on politics, religion, and so-called alternative lifestyles have become more difficult for those in power to control and block out. However, if the users stick to the sites supported, promoted, and suggested by the religious and political elite, the Internet can be a tool that upholds the prevailing system.
Often Internet suspensions by autocratic governments have become a powerful tool to control information flow and suppress dissent. Often, these governments justify internet blackouts by claiming they’re necessary for ‘National Security’, to prevent the spread of ‘Fake News’ or to maintain “public order” during General elections or political turmoil. By cutting off access to global network, leaders aim to isolate citizens, limiting their ability to communicate, organize, or access unbiased information.
However, such shutdowns have severe impacts on the Infringement on Human Rights. It disrupts businesses, education, healthcare, and other vital services that rely on digital infrastructure, leading to financial losses and harming livelihoods, which lead to severe Economic Consequences. As we have witnessed, the recent Internet suspensions has had a backlash and had been condemned by International media, human rights groups.
Turning now to the study of Islam and the Internet, it is clear that individuals and groups that emphasized their “Muslimness” were among the earliest users of the new media. Muslim guest students had enrolled in technological programs at universities that were to become leading departments in the development and promotion of the Internet. Muslims from a large variety of ethnic, linguistic, religious, and political backgrounds are using the Internet for discussing Islam and Muslim affairs and for apologetic or polemical reasons.
A growing number of Muslim scholars as well as established Islamic institutions have also started to use the Internet and satellite television to promote their interpretations of Islam. It has also become more important to reach out to the Muslim community. The transnational dimension has also been highlighted in several studies, that directly or indirectly discuss Islam, Muslims, and the Internet. The Internet provides new opportunities to explore and find alternative interpretations of Islam or to ask questions about Islam (for example, to ask for a fatwa), but it is also clear that this possibility can be perceived as a problem by religious authorities and political leaders, since the Internet is an arena for a large number of different groups ranging in interests from sexual orientations to various political and ideological tendencies. The tension and complexity of the new media are highlighted, the Internet, and the new media in local, global, and transnational contexts.
It is also evident that a growing number of Muslim preachers are using the Internet to promote their specific interpretations of Islam. Muslim religious leaders use the internet in various ways to engage with their communities, share teachings, make video streaming of the Friday Sermons, and address contemporary issues through an Islamic lens. Recognizing that younger generations are highly active online, many religious leaders use social media to connect with them through platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, they share short videos, and inspirational content that address the questions and concerns of young Muslims in today’s world. With rapid technological and social changes, leaders use the internet to address new challenges like artificial intelligence, social justice, financial ethics, and environmental issues from an Islamic perspective, helping followers navigate modern life within their faith’s teachings.
Many Muslim organisations use their platforms to advocate for humanitarian causes, organize charitable campaigns, and raise awareness about global issues affecting Muslims and others worldwide. Their online presence can mobilize resources and support in times of crisis, such as natural disasters or conflicts. By embracing the internet, the Muslim Community help bridge the gap between traditional religious guidance and the digital world, creating accessible resources and fostering inclusive online communities.
Bashir Nuckchady
