The Sectarianization of the Syrian uprising: the jihadization of opposition governance

This chapter examines how the jihadization of the opposition contributed to sectarianization in Syria, most evident in the contest between Sunni and Shia jihadist groups and the jihadi governance they established in parts of Syria. The chapter first assesses the drivers of jihadization, asking why the moderate and nationalist groups were eclipsed by Islamists and why among the latter Salafists and jihadists came to dominate. Second, it assesses how sectarian the struggle for Syria became by examining the ideologies and practices of the rival actors. Thirdly, it will assess why civic governance in rebel areas was eclipsed by jihadist governance and with what effect on identities, that is, how far jihadist governance in opposition areas contributed to the institutionalization of sectarianism in Syria.