Contemporary Trends in the Development of the Religious Consciousness of the Peoples of Central Asia

Abstract

This study examined current trends in the development of religious consciousness among the peoples of Central Asia, focusing on the revival of Islam, the impact of digital technologies, and the interaction of global and local religious practices. The research analysed changes in the region's religious life after the collapse of the Soviet Union and examined the role of state policies in shaping religious consciousness. Results revealed that Islam has regained importance as an aspect of national identity in countries such as Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, where governments actively support religious practices to strengthen social cohesion. More than 50% of respondents in Kazakhstan consider it possible to maintain Muslim identity through online platforms, with analysed applications (Muslim Pro, Athan, Quran Majeed, Salatuk, Umma, and 3DMekanlar) playing significant roles in facilitating religious practices and building digital faith communities. The study identified tensions between global religious movements like Salafism and Tablighi Jamaat and traditional Islamic practices, posing challenges to the region's cultural identity. The practical significance lies in recommendations for policies supporting moderate Islam, preventing radicalization, and effectively using digital technologies in religious life. This contributes to understanding religion's adaptation in the context of globalization and can inform educational and policy initiatives in the region.