Theory, Theology, and Social Mobilization Practices of the Muslim Brotherhood

Dor Moria Think Tank presents a comprehensive study of the transnational Islamist movement and its impact on contemporary geopolitics

The Dor Moria Think Tank is releasing a foundational political-analytical review examining the Muslim Brotherhood—one of the oldest and most influential political Islam organizations in the modern world. The research was prepared by an expert team led by Dr. Lola Kolpina (University of Haifa), Think Tank Director Igor Kaminnik, and international law expert Dan Fayutkin.

Key Research Dimensions

The report analyzes the movement’s nearly century-long evolution from its founding in Egypt in 1928 to its current state, including developments through 2024-2025. Special attention is given to:

  • Ideological foundations—from founder Hassan al-Banna’s concepts to contemporary interpretations of gradual sharia implementation through social institutions
  • Social mobilization mechanisms—creation of extensive networks of mosques, schools, clinics, and charitable foundations to win popular support
  • Geopolitical dimensions—the roles of Turkey and Qatar as key patrons of the movement and their influence on regional politics

Relevance and Innovation

The study incorporates analysis of the latest developments:

  • Changes in Syria following the Assad regime’s fall (December 2024)
  • Jordan’s ban on the movement (April 2025)
  • New data on Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated organizations’ activities in Europe
  • The movement’s influence on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict through Hamas

Comparative Analysis

The report offers a unique comparison of the Muslim Brotherhood model with other forms of political Islam:

  • Salafism and its manifestations in the post-Soviet space
  • Shia political Islam (the Iranian model)
  • Traditional Sufi Islam, particularly in the context of Russia and Central Asia

Practical Significance

The research will be valuable for:

  • Political analysts and Middle East experts
  • Security and counter-extremism specialists
  • Scholars of Islamic movements and their impact on contemporary politics
  • Decision-makers in international relations

Key Findings

The authors conclude that despite repression in many countries, the Muslim Brotherhood remains a significant factor in regional politics. Its social mobilization model continues to be reproduced in various forms, while the confrontation between the movement’s supporters and opponents defines the fault lines of geopolitical divisions in the contemporary Muslim world.

The full report is available for download on the Dor Moria Think Tank website. The document includes an extensive bibliography and references to current sources from 2024-2025.