Deradicalization and Religious Literacy: the Role and Potential in Kazakhstan’s Secular Society

Abstract

In the context of globalization, religious radicalism and extremism have become significant challenges affecting national security, social stability, and the worldview orientations of young people. In this regard, deradicalization and the promotion of religious literacy are increasingly regarded as essential mechanisms for preventing extremist ideologies within Kazakhstan’s secular society. The purpose of this article is to analyze the socio-cultural and ideological prerequisites of religious radicalization in Kazakhstan, to determine the role of religious literacy in preventing extremism, and to assess the potential of deradicalization measures within the framework of a secular state. The study employs historical-comparative, systemic, socio-philosophical, and hermeneutical methods. The findings indicate that religious extremism is influenced by socio-economic inequality, insufficient religious knowledge, identity crises among youth, and the spread of misleading religious narratives. The study also demonstrates that strengthening religious literacy, promoting critical thinking, providing scientifically grounded explanations of traditional religious values, and implementing theological, psychological, and social rehabilitation measures constitute effective components of deradicalization. The connection between religious education, public awareness, and social reintegration in opposing extremist ideologies is given special consideration. The study's thorough analysis of religious literacy and deradicalization as complementing strategies for fostering social cohesiveness and thwarting religious extremism in Kazakhstan is what gives it scholarly relevance. The findings might provide a useful foundation for enhancing public and governmental policies meant to guarantee social stability and religious security.

Keywords: deradicalization, religious literacy, religious extremism, Kazakhstan’s secular society, religious education