IMU

4 Pages 1040 Words

Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU)

To better understand the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, it is essential to first give a brief overview of the history and economic state of Uzbekistan. This lays the groundwork for the explanation of why the IMU was formed.
Uzbekistan is a small county located in central Asia. It extends from the foothills of the Tian Shan and Pamir mountains to land just west of the Aral Sea. Its capital and largest city is Tashkent. Uzbekistan became independent in 1991, after nearly 70 years as a republic of the Soviet Union. The dominant political party in Uzbekistan is the People's Democratic Party of Uzbekistan. It formed after the Soviet Communist Party disbanded in 1991. This party kept much of the Communist Party's membership and policies. A few other parties are allowed to exist but none that seriously challenges government policies. [2]
Ethnic Uzbeks make up more than 70 percent of the population. Russians, the second largest group, make up less than 10 percent of the population. Other groups include Tatars, Kazakhs, Tajiks, and Karakalpaks. As far as the economy is concerned, the government indirectly controls most of Uzbekistan’s economy. Although many farms and small businesses are privately owned, the government controls much of the supply of raw materials and transportation. The government also regulates much of the marketing of goods, particularly exports. [2]
The Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan consists of a coalition of Islamic militants from Uzbekistan and other Central Asian states who oppose the secular government of the current Uzbek regime led by President Islam Karimov. IMU leader Tohir Yuldashev has declared a "jihad" or "holy war" against the Government of Uzbekistan. The IMU was founded in 1996. Its members include individuals who fought in Tajikistan's 1992-97 civil war. Since early 1999, its activities have become more violent, to include bombings and kidnappings. ...