ISLAM AND POLITICS IN CONTEMPORARY LIBYA

Abstract

This article analyses the relation between the diverse contending powers within Libya and
religion since the 19th century, in particular since the 2011 uprising. Since Libya has always
been one of the most conservative countries in North Africa, the current Libyan conflict
should not be subsumed into a mere confrontation between “liberal” and “Islamist” movements. In fact, the religious issue is not the cause of disagreement within the Libyan elite but
rather a struggle for power.