UIII’s PhD Student Listed Among ‘Most Popular Authors’ on Digital Commons Network

UIII.AC.ID, DEPOK - Ararat Kostanian, a PhD candidate at the Faculty of Social Sciences at Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII), has been mentioned as one of the ‘most popular authors’ on an international open-access tool, the Digital Commons Network.

The recognition was gained in particular contribution to his article entitled 'Why Islamism Failed in Syria' published under the affiliation of UIII, which has garnered acclaim as one of the network's most popular articles, underscoring Ararat's significant impact on the academic and research landscape.

“It is no doubt that [the] appreciation [of being on the list of most popular authors] is essential for enhancing motivation to grow and create [a] more positive environment for humanity through our academic findings,” Ararat who is an Armenian national, expressed upon his remarkable achievement.

Ararat’s article discusses the reasons behind Islamism's failure in Syria during the revolution, including the Muslim Brotherhood's inability to build a new leadership and its rejectionist agenda, which fostered skepticism among opposition forces. Furthermore, the Syrian Muslim Brotherhood was unable to modify its political objective and continued to insist on changing Syria's democratic structure.

The article also highlighted that the Muslim Brotherhood's failure in Syria was its reliance on regional powers and its cooperation with extremist groups, which has positioned them on the side of terrorist groups and neutralized the argument that the West, specifically the US, has been circulating for years that the Muslim Brotherhood could be considered a moderate Islamist organization.

Overall, Ararat’s article demonstrates, for the first time in a past-present context, the similar philosophy and approach of the Syrian Muslim Brotherhood and extremist organizations in Syria.

Ararat's academic career has been varied and worldwide in scope. He received his BA in International Relations and Diplomacy from Armenia's Yerevan Hrachia Acharian University, followed by a Master's Degree in International Relations from Australia's elite Australian National University (ANU). Now pursuing PhD at UIII, Ararat is committed to expanding his knowledge and making a meaningful contribution to the academic community.

Previously, Ararat conducted vital research on Turkey's zero-sum doctrine and its influence on Armenian-Turkish relations while working as a Specialist in the Middle Eastern department (ME & Turkey) at Armenia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs from 2011 to 2012.

He is also a seasoned Research Fellow who has worked with several universities and research institutes, such as the Oriental Studies Institute in Armenia from 2015 to 2021 and the Usanas Foundation in India. Also, he has been involved with the International Movement for a Just World in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, since 2021.

In addition, Ararat has also exhibited proficiency in a variety of fields, including International Relations and Political Science. His prolific research, which focuses on terrorism, global jihad, and Middle Eastern studies, has been widely published in many major international publications, demonstrating his broad grasp and significant contributions to a variety of academic subjects.

Ararat frequently participates in international conferences, roundtable talks, and lectures, where he shares his knowledge on Armenia-China ties, the Syrian crisis, and other topics. His media appearances highlight his significance, providing insights into Armenian political conditions and conversations about the Armenian Genocide.

“I’ve [also] been interviewed on State TV, Media Channels, and think tanks in Armenia, Lebanon, Syria, Russia, Saudi Arabia, the United States, India, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The subjects span contemporary global political concerns such as the geopolitical consequences for the Middle East and the establishment of a multilateral world, Armenia and the Nagorno Karabakh conflict, [and] Armenia and its environs. I've also discussed the peaceful cohabitation paradigm between Armenian Christian communities and the Middle Eastern Muslim majority,” he said. 

Furthermore, Ararat in his interview with Australia Live by Armenia Media highlighted Indonesia’s development path and willingness to open up to the world, mentioning that “UIII is an important educational new Institution that will be a bridge between civilizations”.

Ararat Kostanian's rise to become one of the most popular authors is the result of a lifelong dedication to hard studies. His early analysis, extensive research scope, and active participation in global forums show a path distinguished by perseverance and intellectual depth. Obtaining such acknowledgment is an ongoing and significant endeavor in Ararat's scholastic journey.

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