The Middle East Studies Association has awarded Annika Aneko Schmeding's book "Sufi Civilities: Religious Authority and Political Change in Afghanistan" the prestigious "Nikki Keddie Prize". This prize, granted to outstanding works in religion, revolution, and society, is considered one of the most esteemed honors in this field.

The jury praised the book for its “precise and flexible analysis,” “captivating and accessible ethnography,” and its smooth and impactful prose, describing it as a “must-read.” “Sufi Civilities” examines the role of Sufis in Afghanistan’s contemporary history, showcasing how these religious groups have fostered significant transformations in the country by building social and political networks. Drawing on fieldwork and historical analysis, the author highlights the pivotal role of Sufis in maintaining social cohesion and their influence on Afghanistan’s political and cultural developments. The work also delves into the challenges faced by Sufis in confronting modern movements and political Islamist trends.

This year, the “Nikki Keddie Prize” was jointly awarded to Sara Rahnoma for her book “The Future is Feminist: Women and Social Change in Interwar Algeria.” These two works, each from a different perspective, explore the role of social and religious forces in Islamic societies.