Al-Jama’a Al-Islamiya in Post-War Lebanon

Abstract

This thesis explores Al-Jama’a al-Islamiya, the Lebanese Muslim Brotherhood branch, and its political and electoral experience in Lebanon especially in the post- Civil War period. While extensive research has been conducted on the Muslim Brotherhood globally, the Lebanese experience has received limited attention. This study aims to fill this gap by examining Al-Jama’a's electoral performance, achievements, and limited success in garnering popular support and playing a significant political role in the country. The research primarily focuses on Al-Jama'a's parliamentary experience following the Taif Agreement as an indicator of popularity, accompanied by a historical and ideological background to provide a comprehensive understanding. Interviews with current and former officials and specialized analysts supplement the limited available information. The research also highlights the political, popular, and electoral challenges faced by Al-Jama’a and analyzes internal and external obstacles that have hindered its progress. These include issues related to the organizational structure, missed opportunities, and external influences such as political clientelism and regional dynamics. The study emphasizes the need for organizational reforms and highlights the significance of context-specific analyses of the Muslim Brotherhood's experiences. By shedding light on the Lebanese case, this research contributes to a broader understanding of the political dynamics of Islamic movements in the Middle East especially within a multi-sectarian system.