The Muslim Brotherhood Explained: Origins, Ideology and Global Influence | Fair Observer

What is the Muslim Brotherhood and how did it shape modern Islamist movements?

In this episode of the Fair Observer podcast, Egyptian author and political activist Cynthia Farahat joins us to explore the origins, ideology and evolution of the Muslim Brotherhood. Founded in 1928 by Hassan al-Banna in Egypt, the organization grew into one of the most influential Islamist movements in the world.

We discuss the historical context of its creation, the influence of thinkers like Sayyid Qutb and Syed Abul A'la Maududi, and how the movement expanded across the Middle East and beyond. The conversation also examines the Brotherhood’s political strategies, its role during the Arab uprisings and the presidency of Mohamed Morsi, and the broader debate about political Islam.

This discussion provides historical context and analysis of a movement that has influenced politics, security debates and ideological conflicts across the Middle East for nearly a century.

Watch the full conversation and join the discussion.

00:00 What is the Muslim Brotherhood?

07:00 The Concept of Jihad

12:30 Dawah vs Dawla

19:00 Evolution of the Muslim Brotherhood

31:30 London vs Istanbul

40:30 Today’s Muslim Brotherhood

44:00 A Peaceful Muslim Brotherhood?