Ideological and Political Thought of Alija Izetbegović

Abstract

Alija Izetbegović’s ideological preferences and political ideas can be detected through a critical analysis of his published books, studies, letters, interviews, and published political speeches and memories. At the level of ideological worldview, his political thought corresponds with crucial ideas and elements of paternalistic conservatism, defensive and moderate Islamic revivalism, and anti-colonial and post-colonial nationalism, which reveals his substantial political aspiration that seeks to build a functional state, as a solidary and just political community in which the equality, equality and freedom of all individuals will be ensured, without which a sustainable and healthy society inspired by the spirit cannot live multiculturalism. The sketched conceptual framework, which is largely contextually and thematically focused on Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Islamic worldview and the status of Bosniak Muslims, represents his political landmark in the understanding of politics, state, government, society, community, family, religion, nation, class, freedom, equality, solidarity, justice, peace, cooperation and tolerance. Based on his understanding and definition of the aforementioned political science phenomena and ethical-political ideals, it can be concluded that Alija Izetbegović, without any dilemma, anticipates a libertarian, egalitarian and emancipatory interpretation of primary political science concepts, concepts and theories, which forms the constructive basis of his political thought.