The Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM) is based in the Xinjiang province of China, an area populated largely by Uighurs, who are ethnically Turkic and practice Sufi Islam.[2] ETIM seeks to separate the Uighur people, an ethnically and religiously unique group, from China to create “East Turkestan.” Historically, Xinjiang province has been briefly independent twice (1931-1934 and 1944-1949), claiming the name "East Turkistan Republic."[3] When the Chinese government reclaimed the region in 1955, it encouraged ethnic Han Chinese to move into the region, and forced Uighurs there to assimilate to Chinese culture.[4]
Unrest in Xinjiang continues, with ETIM able to mobilize approximately 100 members.[5] ETIM's first reported attack was in 1998.[6] According to the Chinese government, the group has continued to conduct small-scale violent attacks, allegedly with the support of al-Qa’ida and the Taliban.[7] The current leader of the ETIM is unknown, but evidence suggests that all three previous leaders of the organization were affiliated with al-Qa’ida.[8] The Chinese government has increased security and military measures in Xinjiang, which has led to repressive treatment of all Uighurs.[9] According to ETIM, the Chinese government has overemphasized the threat posed by their organization, [10] although al-Qa’ida and the Taliban are cited as the ETIM’s most significant allies and sources of funding, weaponry, and training.[11]
Almost all information regarding ETIM in the open source can be traced back to the Chinese government, making it difficult to assess the structure or operations of the group.[12] View full narrative