^{"Low Lying Threat: Risk from domestic radicals rises in the Maldives."}

^{Jane's Intelligence Review, October 2014}

The Maldives is experiencing a growing undercurrent of Islamist extremism.  Animesh Roul examines this trend and the domestic risk posed by Maldivian youths travelling to fight alongside Islamist groups in jihadist theatres such as Syria.

•  Reports from Syria in May suggested that two Maldivian nationals had died while fighting alongside anti-government jihadist groups.
• The reports of Maldivians fighting in jihadist theatres such as Syria come against the backdrop of increasing extremist Islamist activity within the Maldives, including ongoing rhetorical and physical attacks against atheists or those perceived to hold moderate beliefs.
• Although the Maldivian security forces are likely to be able to contain the direct threat posed by returning Maldivian militants, there is a greater risk that current extremist propaganda efforts will create a new generation of domestic radicals willing to undertake attacks in the Maldives.