THE DEATH OF OSAMA BIN LADEN AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR AL-QAEDA’S FUTURE

Abstract

This article aims to undertake a historical and sociological investigation of Al-Qaeda, analyzing its constituent ideals as well as its development track record to date. We seek well be able to identify and trace the possible trends of behavior of the organization without the presence of its leader, Osama bin Laden. We conclude that al-Qaeda in contemporary acts more as a source of inspiration for radical Islamic groups than as a strict organization, and accordingly the death of bin Laden slightly weakens the operation of the group.