Terrorism, Islam, and Media Narratives Identity

Abstract The connection between terrorism and Islam continues to be debated globally, shaped by media portrayals, socio-political contexts, and some local circumstances. This paper explores why terrorism is often seen as inseparable from Islam, analysing content from The New York Times , BBC , and Nigerian newspapers, along with insights gathered from 20 interviews with journalists, religious leaders, policymakers, and community members. The research reveals that international media frequently portray terrorism in a way that disproportionately projects Muslim individuals as perpetrators, shaping public perception and complicating counterterrorism efforts. In Africa, socio-economic inequality, governance failures, and unresolved grievances contribute to the rise of Islamist extremism. In Nigeria, poverty, political exclusion, and misinterpretations of Islam drive Boko Haram’s recruitment. Community-driven initiatives are essential for challenging extremist narratives. The study emphasises the need to correct stereotypes and address the root causes of extremism while respecting Islam’s socio-cultural identity, offering strategies for more effective, context-specific counterterrorism policies.