Strategies of Rhetoric During the Arab Spring Political Communication. An Analysis of the Islamist Political Discourse

The Arab Spring (2010–2012) witnessed the emergence of Islamist political actors vying to shape the post-revolutionary future of their respective societies. Islamist groups such as the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt, Ennahda in Tunisia, Justice and Development in Morocco, and others played a pivotal role. Their rhetoric combined religious, political, and social themes to navigate the challenges of revolution, governance, and opposition. What are the main rhetorical strategies, illustrating their complexity and adaptability? This paper analyses some of the various rhetorical techniques adopted by Islamists during the Arab Spring. 1. Constructing a moral high ground Islamist rhetoric emphasized moral authority to contrast their values with those of the regimes. Islam is claimed the source of justice. The struggle is framed as morally superior, advocating for justice, accountability, and governance rooted in ethics. 2. Religious legitimacy Islamist groups leveraged religious symbolism and language. Through the strategic use of Quranic Verses and Hadiths into political discourse, they provided theological justification for their actions and policy goals. 3. Bridging religion and revolution During the uprisings, Islamist groups adeptly combined religious ideals with revolutionary themes. Freedom is considered as a God-Given right. Many Islamist leaders framed demands for freedom, dignity, and social justice as intrinsic to Islamic teachings, bridging secular revolutionary aspirations with religious values. 4. Employing populist strategies and using media technology Islamist political discourse incorporated populist strategies to appeal to ordinary citizens and mobilize mass support. Islamist groups framed themselves as the "Voice of the People", against authoritarian elites, constructing a populist dichotomy of "the people" vs. "the regime". 5. Balancing pragmatism and ideology Islamist groups faced the challenge of reconciling their ideological commitments with the practical demands of governance and coalition-building. They use moderation as a strategy and tempered their rhetoric to appeal to secular and liberal audiences, emphasizing shared goals such as anti-corruption and democracy. 6. Themes of martyrdom and sacrifice The rhetoric of resistance and sacrifice is central to Islamist narratives. Islamists glorify the martyrs who died in the uprisings (shuhada), drawing on deeply ingrained cultural and religious reverence for self-sacrifice. 7. Fusing National and Islamic Identities Islamist rhetoric often blended nationalism with religious identity. Claiming Islamic patriotism, the Islamist movements presented themselves as defenders of both the Islamic faith and national sovereignty, resisting external interference or perceived Western domination. Conclusion The rhetorical strategies of Islamist groups during the Arab Spring were dynamic and multifaceted, reflecting their need to navigate revolutionary upheavals, societal expectations, and the demands of governance. By intertwining religious, political, and populist themes, they mobilized support and positioned themselves as pivotal political actors. Method To demonstrate the challenges this discourse is undergoing, the paper will use the critical discourse analysis using James Martin's rhetorical method and Atlas.ti textual coding, clouding and mapping. This methodology will clarify how the seven listed techniques Islamist organizations use in their political discourse. Keywords: Arab spring revolution, Islamist discourse, moral high ground, Islamist rhetoric, pragmatism, ideology.