These are AI-summarized news pieces from across the web, without any opinions or backlash—the exercise does not aim to influence opinions about Europe, its people, or Islam or its followers. Some pieces provide CONTEXT, and others present the LATEST, all collated from web research...[The hyperlink in the Title is the Source of the information itself...]
LATEST
Political Islam in Europe: Challenges and Implications
Political Islam in Europe has become a prominent subject of political, media, and social debate. The arrival and growth of Muslim groups active in religious outreach or political mobilisation, together with global geopolitical shifts, have placed this interpretation of Islam at the heart of European public-policy considerations. The report highlights that ‘political Islam’ is a broad category encompassing movements and ideologies that seek to integrate Islamic values into governance and public life. Some forms adhere to democratic norms, while others take a more confrontational or radical stance. European governments face multiple challenges: managing integration and identity tensions between religious communities and secular societies; addressing legal and political conflicts arising from interpretations of Sharia or foreign influence; and combating radicalisation without undermining civil liberties and social cohesion. The analysis urges nuanced, multi-layered policy responses that differentiate between legitimate political participation and activities aimed at exerting social or political influence under religious guise. Supportive measures—such as inter-faith dialogue, inclusive integration policies, and addressing socioeconomic disadvantages—are emphasised as core to maintaining democracy and cohesion. Success in handling political Islam will depend on the ability of policymakers, civil society, and Muslim communities to engage in constructive dialogue and cooperation, shaping inclusive frameworks rather than security-only approaches.
German court opens trial of Saudi doctor for Christmas market attack
A court in Magdeburg, Germany, has begun the trial of 51-year-old Saudi psychiatrist Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, who is charged with six counts of murder and the attempted murder of 338 people after allegedly driving a van into a crowded Christmas market on December 20, 2024. The victims include a nine-year-old boy and five women; more than 300 people were wounded. Al-Abdulmohsen, who has been in custody since the incident, faces life imprisonment if convicted. He has expressed far-right sympathies, criticised Germany’s acceptance of Muslim asylum seekers, and labelled himself a “Saudi atheist.” Security at the trial is high: a large courtroom has been prepared to accommodate over 140 co-plaintiffs and around 400 witnesses, and the defendant is being held in a bulletproof booth. The case has raised serious questions about intelligence and security services in Germany, as al-Abdulmohsen had previously made death threats and posted extremist rhetoric online. The trial is being closely watched for its implications on migrant integration, radicalisation, and public safety within Europe’s democracies.
Germany bans activist influencer group Muslim Interaktiv, raids properties
German authorities have banned the influencer organisation Muslim Interaktiv, citing its alleged anti-constitutional activism and calls for a caliphate. Under the ban, the group’s assets will be seized, and its operations terminated. A coordinated law enforcement operation targeted the organisation and two related Islamic groups—Generation Islam and Realitaet Islam—with searches executed at seven properties in Hamburg and twelve in Berlin and Hesse. The government’s move follows growing concerns over the group’s public demonstrations and online presence. Muslim Interaktiv, created in 2020, drew national attention following a large protest in Hamburg in April 2024, where participants displayed slogans endorsing a caliphate. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt stated that the ban was issued based on a professional security assessment and affirmed that religion was not the basis of the decision. Relations between the German government and Muslim communities have become strained amid Berlin’s backing of Israel in the Gaza conflict and public remarks by Chancellor Friedrich Merz regarding Muslim men in urban environments. Moving forward, the ban signals a heightened vigilance by German security agencies toward religious-political mobilisation and digital influence networks.
The Challenge of Islam in the UK
The piece argues that Islam poses a significant challenge to Christian communities and the broader societal framework in the UK. It cites the religion’s rapid growth—in both demographics and influence—and suggests that political and religious ambitions within Islamist movements are influencing democratic processes and cultural norms. The author contends that many Christian observers have prioritised secularism as the main issue, while underestimating the impact of Islam’s expansion.
Statistics presented indicate that Muslims now form approximately 6.5% of the UK population, and Islam is the fastest-growing religion in the country. The text also notes numerous high-profile incidents—such as the assassination of an MP by a Muslim attacker—that are interpreted as evidence of Islamist influence on politics and public life.
The article proposes a five-pillar response for churches and Christian communities: engagement through prayer, loving Muslim neighbours, theologically addressing Islam’s claims, standing for Christian values in public discourse, and actively supporting integration. The underlying message is that Christians must wake up to the shift and respond proactively to preserve religious liberty and cultural identity.
The United Kingdom’s First Anti-Muslim Pogroms in a Context of Genocidal Islamophobia in Gaza
This commentary analyses a series of public attacks in the United Kingdom during the summer of 2024, framing them as the country’s first anti-Muslim pogroms. The author explores the specific geography, ideology, and political climate that enabled this violence to erupt in tandem with the conflict in Gaza. The piece emphasises how Islamophobia in Britain has shifted from sporadic prejudice to organised violence, enabled by far-right mobilisation and a broader securitisation of Muslim identity. It situates the events within a pattern of systemic hostility rather than spontaneous unrest, and highlights the targeting of mosques, asylum-centre hotels, and Muslim-owned businesses. The article argues that the pogroms emerged not simply from far-right agitation, but from long-standing structural dynamics including media portrayals of Muslims, migration anxieties, and governmental framing of “otherness”. It concludes by calling for a renewed focus on anti-Muslim racism as a form of organised, spatialised violence within the UK—not just an episodic security concern.
How the UK’s Deep-Rooted Islamophobia Problem Stoked Far-Right Riots
The article reveals how entrenched Islamophobic sentiment in the UK catalysed a wave of far-right riots following a high-profile murder in Southport in the summer of 2024. It traces how disinformation falsely linking the attacker to Muslim asylum seekers ignited violence in multiple cities, where far-right groups targeted mosques, asylum-seeker hotels, and ethnic-minority communities. The unrest is depicted as the result of a “simmering” hostility framed by decades of anti-Muslim rhetoric and neglect of structural inequality. Government efforts to tackle Islamophobia are described as inconsistent: the existing anti-Muslim-hatred working group was dormant for over four years while incidents mounted. A charity warns that Muslim communities are now frightened to go out at night, and data show a marked spike in Islamophobic incidents. The article argues that political discourse and media representation played a major role in enabling the unrest. The piece concludes that the riots are a stark symptom of wider social fragility. It calls for urgent and robust government engagement with Muslim communities, reliable monitoring of hate crimes, and clearer definitions of Islamophobia in policy, to prevent future escalations.
What’s with People Saying “Muslims Are Taking Over the Country”?
A thread posted by a UK resident questions why online narratives claim that Muslims are “overrunning” the country or turning the UK into an “Islamic state.” One commenter writes: > “Areas like Birmingham, Bradford, and Leeds where the area is noticeably different … I think a lot of people have no issue with the concept of immigrants moving here… but it’s when they see people… not even attempt to integrate… that’s when it gets people.”
Several key dynamics emerge from the discussion:
Visibility and perception: Some respondents describe distinct community clustering, visible cultural change (e.g., signage in Arabic, women in traditional dress), and shifts in neighbourhood character, particularly in certain urban areas. Integration versus identity: The lack of perceived integration and cultural engagement (“They don’t speak English and go between mosque, home and shops”) is frequently cited as a driver of anxiety. Media and discourse amplification: One voice notes: > “The problem is a load of people that are scared of growth and development… being presented with the ‘other’ brings out anxieties”
Statistical moderation and myth versus reality: Several contributors push back, noting the UK Muslim population remains around 6.5 % and asserting that claims of “taking over” lack grounding in demographic fact.
Key takeaways for executives and policy watchers:
Claims of “Muslims taking over” reflect perception as much as data; visible cluster‐formation can create a sense of change even when numbers are modest.
Resident experience differs dramatically by geography; uniform national narratives often mask localised realities.
Media amplification and social‐media echo contribute to fear cycles and may fuel both overestimation and resentment.
Integration measures (language, civic participation, cross-community engagement) remain central to addressing perception gaps.
Policymakers should understand that the anxiety is over cultural change and speed of change rather than purely religion or migration numbers.
Conceptualising the Waves of Islamist Radicalisation in the UK
This article presents a theoretical framework identifying multiple distinct “waves” of Islamist radicalisation in the United Kingdom, rooted in patterns of identity disruption, racialisation, resistance, and mobilisation. It argues that radicalisation among British Muslim youth cannot be understood purely as ideological conversion, but must be located within local, national, and international dynamics that include socioeconomic exclusion, racialised identities, political marginalisation, and global events. The author outlines five phases of radicalisation, each shaped by changing contexts—from early foreign-theatre mobilisation to recent online networks and returnees. The paper emphasises that each wave is conditioned by layered factors at micro (individual), meso (community), and macro (global) levels. It contends that responses should move beyond “religion as culprit” and address structural factors such as identity fracture, exclusion, and international grievance. Ultimately, the article calls for nuanced, multi-dimensional policy approaches rooted in social, political, and cultural insight rather than purely security-driven models.
Germany Bans Muslim Group Calling for Caliphate, Cracks Down on Others
Germany’s federal government has banned the influencer organisation Muslim Interaktiv, citing its promotion of antisemitism, advocacy for a caliphate, and opposition to democratic norms. Alongside the ban, authorities launched coordinated raids on properties linked to two other Islamic groups—Generation Islam and Realitaet Islam—in Hamburg, Berlin, and Hesse. The Interior Ministry described the actions as necessary responses to organisations that seek to replace German law with religious authority, denigrate women’s rights, and exploit youthful audiences via online platforms.
While officials emphasise that the measures are about safeguarding the constitutional order—not targeting religion—the decision reflects heightened government vigilance toward groups that blur the line between cultural engagement and ideological opposition. This move signifies a strategic shift from reactive policing to proactive ideological intervention. The outcome will likely shape future state policies on monitoring religious-political movements and overseeing social media operations of radicalised networks.
Taking a Page from the French Anti-Islam Playbook, UK Redefines “Extremism”
The UK government has introduced a revised definition of extremism that extends beyond violence to include the promotion of ideologies said to “undermine, overturn or replace the UK’s system of liberal parliamentary democracy.” This shift mirrors French secular-state approaches that critics say target Muslim civic and political expression. Strong concerns have been raised that the policy effectively frames mainstream Muslim organisations as potential extremists, especially amid heightened pro-Palestinian activism.
By proscribing groups such as Hizb ut‑Tahrir under the new definitions—even without recent violent activity—the UK risks criminalising political or religious speech rather than policing violence. The author argues that this expansion acts as “thought policing,” and may erode civil liberties while heightening distrust within Muslim communities.
Experts caution that while genuine threats exist, conflating legitimate dissent or political mobilisation with extremism may weaken integration efforts and fuel alienation. For durable social cohesion, the piece argues that the focus should remain on violent acts and credible threats—not on ideological divergence alone.
UAE Told UK: Crack Down on Muslim Brotherhood or Lose Arms Deals
The United Arab Emirates reportedly pressured the United Kingdom to take formal action against the Muslim Brotherhood—a request linked to multi-billion‐pound arms and investment discussions. The leaked diplomatic document indicates that unless Britain adopts a more confrontational stance toward the organisation, the UAE would reconsider strategic deals. In effect, the UAE sought to align UK policy on Islamist groups with its own regional security agenda.
British officials subsequently commissioned a wide-ranging review of the Brotherhood’s networks in the UK. The resulting government statement labelled membership or influence of the organisation as a “possible indicator of extremism,” though it fell short of a ban. This episode illustrates how commercial partnerships and geopolitical leverage can influence domestic counter-extremism strategy, potentially introducing external trade imperatives into policy decisions.
The broader implication for liberal democracies is the tension between maintaining strategic exports and preserving independent assessments of ideological organisations. The intersection of defence contracts and security policy risks narrowing civil-society space and blurring lines between foreign-policy influence and domestic governance.
UK Bans Hizb ut‑Tahrir as Terrorist Organisation Under Terrorism Act
The UK government has formally proscribed Hizb ut-Tahrir (HT) as a terrorist organisation under the Terrorism Act 2000. The draft order, laid before Parliament on 15 January 2024, will take effect on 19 January and criminalises membership, support, or public display of material linked to HT, exposing individuals to penalties of up to 14 years’ imprisonment.
Home Secretary James Cleverly stated HT is antisemitic, actively promotes terrorism, and celebrated the 7 October Hamas attacks. Despite the group’s historical classification as non-violent in the UK, the new designation is justified by recent behaviour during pro-Palestinian protests and HT’s open admiration for extremist acts.
The decision marks a significant shift in British counter-extremism policy by banning a previously legal Islamist political movement. Analysts warn this move may drive HT activities underground, complicate oversight, and strain civil-liberties frameworks. The ban comes amid broader scrutiny of Islam-related activism and signals a tougher UK posture toward ideological movements, not just violent organisations.
Unpacking the Crackdown on Palestine Solidarity Activism in the UK in a Post-7 October Reality
This article examines how the United Kingdom’s response to the pro-Palestinian solidarity movement—especially following 7 October 2023—has transitioned from largely reactive protest management to proactive suppression. The authors argue that both formal and informal measures have been deployed to regulate, monitor, and criminalise expressions of solidarity with Palestine. These steps include legal sanctions, workplace restrictions, academic oversight, and media narratives that shift the representation of solidarity activism toward suspicion and delegitimisation.
Their research highlights a disproportionate impact on racialised communities—particularly Muslims—and underscores that suppression often targets broader political expression rather than isolated extremist behaviour. The authors contend that these dynamics feed into existing power structures and reflect wider continuities of surveillance, control, and racialised governance. They also note that localisation of global conflicts animates domestic policy choices and amplifies state-society tensions.
The core recommendation is that durable social cohesion must move beyond policing dissent and shift toward institutionalised participation, transparent regulation, and recognition of civil liberties. Ending ad-hoc crackdowns in favour of inclusive civic frameworks will be pivotal to protecting both democratic values and minority-community trust.
France’s Controversial ‘Separatism’ Bill: Seven Things to Know
France’s draft law on “separatism” broadens legal powers aimed at combating movements the government terms “Islamist” and reinforcing secular republican values. Key provisions include criminalising threats or intimidation of public servants, empowering authorities to close religious associations linked to “separatist” behaviour, and demanding transparency for foreign-funded religious organisations. The bill also introduces stricter controls over homeschooling, sports clubs, and financial donations.
Supporters argue the legislation is a necessary response to violent attacks and parallel societal structures that challenge French secularism, gender equality, and public order. Critics counter that the law disproportionately targets the Muslim minority, suppresses religious freedom and assimilation instead of integration, and sets a precedent for state oversight of civil society. The legislation passed the National Assembly with a strong majority and then moved to the Senate for final approval.
Observers caution that while the objective of preserving universal secular values may be legitimate, the law’s expansive and vague definitions risk embedding discrimination in the regulation of religion and civic participation.
France Plans Crackdown on Radical Islam After Two Bloody Attacks
In response to two recent terror attacks, the French government is moving to enact legislation targeting radical Islam, signalling a shift from reactive security measures to broader state intervention in religious and social spheres. The proposed law seeks to tighten controls on religious associations, enforce stricter oversight of schools and websites, and demand transparency in foreign-funded religious groups. PBS+1
Advocates contend that the measures are necessary to protect secular republican values and combat the merging of extremist ideology with religious identity. Critics warn that the law risks stigmatizing the broader Muslim population and undermining civil liberties by conflating belief systems with security threats.
The initiative underscores France’s broader cultural and political challenge: integrating a diverse, growing Muslim population within a model of laïcité that emphasises state neutrality on religion while upholding a singular national identity. How the law balances security, religious freedom, and social cohesion will carry implications not just for France but for democracies grappling with similar dynamics.
Government-Commissioned Report Says Muslim Brotherhood Posing a Threat to French Unity
A state-commissioned report in France presents a strategic analysis warning that the Muslim Brotherhood is working covertly through local proxies to influence French institutions and undermine republican norms. It suggests the group is targeting schools, mosques, charities, and NGOs to shape governance in areas such as secularism and gender equality. According to the report, the organisation is embedded within French society and pursuing a long-term agenda of entryism.
The findings triggered President Emmanuel Macron to convene senior officials and request new policy proposals by early June to address what the government now characterises as a threat to national cohesion. Critics—including Muslim community groups and civil-rights scholars—contend that the report’s public framing stigmatises an entire religious community and amplifies. Despite the alarmist tone, the report underscores that while the influence is present, the number of individuals formally affiliated remains relatively small. It warns against complacency and calls for strategic state responses focused on institutional resilience, transparency in foreign-funded religious activity, and vigilance in local governance networks.
Latest from Spain:
The people, the system, and communities - how are they reacting as the sentiments echo that Islam is becoming invasive again rather than maintaining its religious neutrality like other ethnicities, faiths across Europe...
Spain’s Government Rebukes Town’s Ban on Muslim Religious Gatherings
A local Spanish town enacted a ban forbidding the use of municipal sports facilities for religious or cultural activities deemed “foreign to the council,” a move that effectively targets Muslim holiday celebrations. The national government criticized the measure as discriminatory and ordered its reversal, saying it violates the constitutional right to freedom of religion and risks eroding social cohesion.
The municipal council defended the decision as preserving local identity and ensuring public-space usage aligns with “our values,” but Muslim community leaders responded by calling it institutionalised Islamophobia. The controversy intensifies debates in Spain about nationalism, secularism, and how integrated Muslim communities are perceived in public life. The policy precedent also highlights the tension between local autonomy emerging from far-right influence and national obligations under constitutional and human-rights norms.
Spain’s Local Authority Bans Muslims from Public Facilities for Religious Celebrations
A town in southeastern Spain has issued a decree barring municipal sports and civic-centre facilities from being used for religious, cultural, or social activities deemed “foreign” to the local identity—implicitly targeting Muslim festivals such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. The move, driven by a conservative-majority council with support from a far-right party, affects a community where Muslims constitute around 7 % of the population.
National-level government ministers condemned the decision as discriminatory and a violation of constitutional protections for religious freedom. Leaders of Spain’s Muslim community described the ban as institutionalised Islamophobia, warning that it erodes social cohesion and undermines centuries of Muslim heritage in the region.
The incident spotlights the growing influence of identity politics in local governance and raises questions about the balance between municipal autonomy and national legal commitments. Legal challenge appears likely, and the case signals broader tensions in liberal democracies grappling with religious pluralism and the politics of public space.
Spain’s Government Orders Town to Revoke Muslim Community Religious Gathering Ban
A town in Spain’s Murcia region had introduced a regulation denying municipal sports facilities for any activity deemed “foreign” to the local identity—a move interpreted as targeting Muslim celebrations. The national government swiftly intervened, condemning the measure as discriminatory and a violation of constitutional religious freedom. The town’s leadership, backed by conservative and far-right parties, defended the ban as a defense of cultural values. Muslim community representatives denounced the decision as institutionalised intolerance. The dispute reflects broader European tensions between local autonomy and national obligations to protect pluralism.
Spain’s Local Authority Bans Muslims from Public Facilities for Religious Celebrations
A town in southeastern Spain has issued a decree barring municipal sports and civic-centre facilities from being used for religious, cultural, or social activities deemed “foreign” to the local identity—implicitly targeting Muslim festivals such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. The move, driven by a conservative-majority council with support from a far-right party, affects a community where Muslims constitute roughly 7 % of the population.
The national government immediately condemned the decision as discriminatory and a violation of constitutional protections for religious freedom. Leaders of Spain’s Muslim community described the ban as institutionalised prejudice, warning that it erodes social cohesion and undermines centuries of Muslim heritage in the region.
The incident underscores the growing influence of identity politics in local governance and raises critical questions about the balance between municipal autonomy and national commitments to pluralism. Legal challenge appears likely, and the case signals broader tensions in liberal democracies grappling with religious diversity and the politics of public space.
Spanish Town Bans Muslim Religious Celebrations in Public Facilities
A town in southeastern Spain has enacted a regulation prohibiting the use of municipal sports and civic facilities for religious, cultural, or social activities deemed “foreign to our identity,” a decision that overwhelmingly impacts its Muslim community. The measure follows recent migrant-related unrest in the region and was backed by a coalition of conservative and far-right parties.
The national government swiftly intervened, condemning the regulation as discriminatory and mandating its revocation to uphold constitutional protections of religious freedom. Muslim community leaders described the ban as institutionalised prejudice, warning that it undermines integration and trust. This case signals growing tensions in European public-space governance, where identity politics, local autonomy, and national pluralism now collide in highly visible policy disputes.
You can also watch this video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oXvlhzdCDOY.
Islamophobia in Spain on the Rise: What Is the Role of Right-Wing Extremists?
A recent analysis in Spain reveals a marked increase in anti-Muslim hostility, with far-right extremist groups playing a central role in shaping public discourse and policy responses. These actors have strategically leveraged Islamophobic tropes—often under the guise of defending national identity or countering “foreign influence”—to mobilise broader segments of society beyond their usual base. Their narratives expand traditional anti-immigration rhetoric by framing Muslim communities as cultural threats rather than simply social or economic challengers.
The study highlights three dynamics: first, the normalisation of anti-Muslim language and positions within mainstream political parties, which blurs the boundary between extremist fringe and conventional governance; second, the use of localised actions—such as restricting Muslim celebrations or limiting mosque activities—as symbolic contests over public space, community entitlement and civic visibility; third, the diminished capacity of institutional safeguards to respond effectively, as social integration frameworks remain reactive and unevenly applied.
The authors argue that counter-measures must extend beyond law enforcement to focus on structural inclusion, resilient civic engagement, and robust intercultural communication. Strengthening community relations, enhancing transparency of local governance, and dismantling identity-based exclusion are presented as essential steps toward reversing Islamophobic trends and reinforcing democratic cohesion.
Islamist Terrorist Rings in Spain: Current Situation and Future Outlook
The report offers a comprehensive analysis of how Islamist terrorist networks have established a presence in Spain and outlines the factors that could elevate their threat status. Spain has transitioned from being a logistical or symbolic safe-haven for jihadist support cells to a potential direct target. The networks identified are agile and opportunistic: they engage in propaganda, fundraising, recruitment, document forgery, arms procurement, and the facilitation of foreign fighters.
Although formal large-scale attacks on Spanish soil remain rare, the report warns that evolving geopolitical dynamics, domestic radicalisation, and migration flows increase vulnerability. Key risk vectors include recruitment among first-generation immigrants, unmonitored charitable organisations, and the exploitation of community vulnerabilities. Spain’s relative freedom of movement and proximity to North Africa amplify exposure.
Effective mitigation requires a three-fold strategy: sustained international intelligence cooperation, integration of Muslim communities into prevention mechanisms, and robust socio-economic inclusion frameworks. The report emphasises that counter-terrorism efforts should complement security enforcement with community resilience and inclusive governance.
Journalism in Spain: Why Omitting Ethnicity May Be Doing More Harm Than Good
In Spain, a journalistic tradition of withholding suspects’ ethnic backgrounds in crime reporting is increasingly misfiring. A high-profile incident in Torre Pacheco, where a mob mobilised based on a misleading video blaming Moroccan immigrants, illustrates how the absence of those details enabled far-right actors to exploit the narrative and blame “Maghrebi” communities broadly.
The article argues that attempts to prevent prejudice by omitting ethnicity are now being leveraged by extremist groups as a cover for misinformation. The cycle emerges as: no mention of nationality leads to assumptions, false social-media claims proliferate, and vigilante mobilisation ensues. For national media accredited as trustworthy, this trend is eroding public faith in journalism and amplifying fringe narratives. The piece highlights that despite one-third of Torre Pacheco’s residents being immigrants, the crime rate remains lower than national averages—yet perception of threat persists. It concludes that journalistic neutrality is insufficient alone: transparency, media literacy, fact-checking, and accountability are essential to prevent the vacuum that extremist groups fill.
The Muslim Brotherhood in Spain
This analytical briefing explores how the Muslim Brotherhood has established a layered and flexible presence in Spain through affiliated associations, religious networks, and institutional influence. The movement is not unified but comprises several branches and individuals seeking positions within established Muslim communal structures and broader civic networks in Spain.
Key figures—such as the late Riay Tatary, former president of the Islamic Commission of Spain—illustrate the broader strategy of embedding within mainstream institutional Islam and gaining access to decision-making channels at local and national levels. The Brotherhood’s Spanish manifestation is characterised more by indirect cultural influence and organisational presence than by overt political mobilisation or violent tactics.
European security services’ assessments reveal consistent concerns about the movement’s long-term agenda: promoting a gradual shift in norms and governance through civil-society and religious vehicles. The briefing emphasises that the scale of influence remains modest but warns that policy responses should address structural channels such as foreign-funded networks, campus mobilisation, and associative Islamism to safeguard pluralist and democratic governance.
Spain Orders Town to Scrap Ban on Muslim Festivities in Public Facilities
A Spanish town issued a regulation barring the use of municipal sports and civic venues for religious gatherings deemed “foreign to the city council,” a move that effectively targeted the town’s Muslim community’s Eid celebrations. The national government swiftly intervened, ordering the town to rescind the measure because it infringed constitutional protections for religious freedom. The dispute reflects a broader tension between local autonomy and national legal obligations in the context of religious pluralism. Community leaders characterised the ban as institutionalised discrimination, warning that it undermines social cohesion and public trust. The situation also illustrates how identity politics and far-right influence at the sub-national level can clash with democratic norms and inclusive governance. The case underscores the importance of balancing cultural preservation with civil-liberties protections, and highlights the growing challenge liberal democracies face in managing public-space regulation when religious diversity intersects with local-identity politics.
Anti-Migrant Unrest Shakes Spanish Town (Torre Pacheco)
A wave of anti-migrant violence erupted in Torre Pacheco, southeastern Spain, following the assault of a 68-year-old local man. The incident triggered several nights of clashes involving far-right protesters and migrant residents, marking one of the most serious instances of xenophobic unrest in Spain in recent years. The unrest escalated rapidly as social-media posts circulated incitements to violence, prompting a major police deployment. Demonstrators, some armed with batons and bottles, sought migrants in the streets and engaged riot police in multiple confrontations. Migrants—many from North Africa and working in the region’s agricultural sector—reported fear and disruption to daily life.
Authorities arrested several individuals for assault, hate crimes, and public order offences. Officials acknowledged that far-right political actors and online mobilisation played a role in organising the unrest. Community and integration issues, including migrant concentration, youth frustration, and perceived law-and-order failures, form the broader context of the disturbance. The incident underscores the growing intersection of local labour-migration dynamics, social-media radicalisation, and right-wing mobilisation in Europe’s peripheral regions.
Far-Right Circles Urge Expulsion of Muslims from Spain
In Spain, far-right political figures and grassroots movements have accelerated rhetoric demanding the expulsion of Muslim “invaders,” framing the issue through a historical lens of recapturing territory from Islam. They invoke the legacy of events from the Reconquista to justify modern exclusionary policies. These actors characterise Muslim communities—especially in Andalusia and Catalonia—as demographic threats intent on undermining Spanish identity and sovereignty.
Anti-Muslim agitation includes social-media campaigns and street-level mobilisation focused on mosque construction, foreign-funded organisations, and immigration from North Africa. Analysts warn that the intensified messaging may normalise Islamophobia in mainstream discourse, reducing space for nuanced policies and community integration. The trend signals a shift from sporadic hate incidents toward more organised political strategies aimed at redefining belonging, citizenship, and religious minority rights in a changing Spain.
The Fight Against Islamophobia in Madrid, Paris, and London
This study explores the evolving strategies that Muslim communities in Madrid, Paris, and London are employing to confront Islamophobia within highly visible urban settings. It emphasises the dual shift from reactive responses to proactive engagement—moving beyond incident reporting to structured advocacy, media participation, civic alliances, and digital platforms. The research identifies three core methods: community-led narrative framing to contest stereotypes, cross-faith partnerships to build broader legitimacy, and targeted legal action to challenge discriminatory policies. Additionally, the article analyses how these efforts vary across cities based on local governance, media ecosystems, and demographic composition. In Madrid, for example, the focus lies on visibility in municipal politics; in Paris, legal instruments have been more central; in London, digital activism and networked responses dominate. The paper argues that success hinges on institutional access, resonant messaging, and sustained resource investment. It concludes that while Islamophobia remains entrenched, the shift toward strategic agency by Muslim organisations marks a meaningful advance in civic resilience.
CONTEXT
Europe: Integrating Islam
Europe is at a critical juncture in integrating its growing Muslim population into secular, pluralistic societies. The backgrounder outlines the demographic evolution of Muslim communities in Western Europe and the persistent integration challenges they face. These include higher-than-average poverty and unemployment rates, residential segregation, and limited upward mobility. Identity and religion further complicate matters: many Muslims feel more allegiance to faith than nationality, and community cohesion is often driven by a response to perceived cultural exclusion rather than simply cultural preference.
The report emphasises that integration must navigate three key dimensions: socioeconomic inclusion, cultural identity alignment, and political participation. Success in one domain without the others leads to social fragmentation or radicalisation risks. Effective strategies include early access to education and employment, nuanced policies that respect religious identity while safeguarding shared civic values, and inclusive dialogue between Muslim communities and broader society.
In conclusion, the paper argues that Europe must move beyond a security-first lens toward one focused on full societal participation and sustained trust-building. A future of mutual adaptation and collaboration is presented as the most stable route forward for democratic societies grappling with religious diversity.
The Muslim Brotherhood in Europe
This report examines the presence and influence of the Muslim Brotherhood in Europe, identifying it primarily as a networked movement rather than a centrally controlled organisation with strict membership cards or weekly directives. It explains that the Brotherhood’s structure adapts well to Western political environments where rigid hierarchies are less effective, enabling diverse affiliate groups to operate semi-independently while sharing ideological foundations.
In Europe, these groups build credibility through social, religious, and educational activities, positioning themselves as community partners rather than overtly political actors. This approach allows them to extend influence into civil society, media, and political discourse. The report highlights the movement’s dual capability: engaging legitimate civic participation while maintaining an ideological model that can challenge liberal democratic norms.
Policy-makers are advised to recognise the subtler evolution of Islamist networks in Europe—focusing less on formal membership and more on participation channels, funding flow, and organisational linkages. While engagement and integration policies remain essential, they must be complemented by transparency in foreign-funded activities, regulatory clarity on charitable operations, and early intervention in ideological networks to safeguard social cohesion and democratic integrity.
Summary Report on Islamophobia in the EU after 11 September 2001
This synthesis examines the pattern and impact of anti-Muslim sentiment across the European Union since 11 September 2001. It identifies a marked rise in hostile attitudes and actions directed at Muslim communities, amplified by the global shifts in security and identity politics that followed the attacks. While lethal violence remained relatively rare, the report highlights significant increases in verbal abuse, harassment, damage to Islamic cultural centres, and public anxiety tied to Muslim identity.
The analysis highlights several common factors across member states: a spike in Islamophobic incidents post-2001, media and political rhetoric that reframed Muslim communities as security risks, and institutional gaps in monitoring religious-based discrimination. Equally, the synthesis documents practical responses in some jurisdictions—initiatives in media, education, community outreach, and inter-faith dialogue—that helped alleviate tensions and foster inclusion.
The report presents actionable recommendations: establishing robust data-collection systems for faith-based harassment, applying anti-discrimination directives consistently, enhancing media literacy on religious-identity issues, and supporting community engagement to rebuild trust. It frames the trajectory not as predetermined, but as contingent on sustained policy commitment and inclusive civic frameworks.
Awakening in Europe: The West Walks the Path India Took
Europe’s political and cultural establishment is undergoing a sharp reckoning with decades of liberal tolerance and open-border policies. The article argues that unchecked immigration, radical preaching, and ideological extremism have eroded social trust and created parallel societies. Nations such as France, Germany, and the Netherlands are beginning to assert that Sharia law will not coexist with democratic norms. The author interprets this as Europe’s “forced awakening,” where civilizational survival now outweighs unbalanced notions of multiculturalism.
Spain’s social unrest and anti-radical protests are cited as examples of citizens reclaiming public space and compelling governments to enforce border control and surveillance. The piece contrasts Europe’s late response with India’s earlier experience confronting terrorism, illegal conversions, and ideological extremism, framing Prime Minister Modi’s policies—Article 370 revocation, CAA-NRC, and counter-terror operations—as a model of firm but humane governance.
The article calls for a unified global strategy: sanctions on states that harbor terrorists, intelligence cooperation, migration control, and ideological counter-education. It concludes that India’s “Bharat Model” demonstrates how strength and compassion can coexist in defending democracy, and that the world’s stability now depends on firm leadership, cultural confidence, and collective resistance to radicalism.
Islamophobia and Its Consequences on Young People
This report from the Council of Europe examines how Islamophobia shapes the lived experiences of young people across Europe. It highlights that Islamophobia—defined as fear, prejudice, or hostility towards Islam and Muslims—has evolved into a structural concern impacting identity, dignity, and civic belonging among Muslim-heritage youth.
The document draws attention to combined factors fueling Islamophobia: discrimination, stereotyping in the media, limited social integration, and socioeconomic disparities. It emphasises that young Muslims often face double burdens—prejudice based on religion and wider dynamics of racial exclusion and cultural othering. Consequently, youth belonging, confidence, and future orientation can be weakened.
Education, intercultural dialogue, and robust anti-discrimination policy emerge as the proposed remedy. The report recommends embedding rights-based frameworks into education; enhancing youth engagement in diversity work; and treating Islamophobia as part of broader racial and religious tolerance efforts rather than a standalone issue. It frames the challenge as requiring systemic change—not just individual awareness—and sees inclusive youth participation as central to fostering cohesive, pluralist societies.
How Islam Became the Fastest-Growing Religion in Europe
Islam is now the fastest-growing religion in Europe, driven by continued immigration and higher birth-rates among Muslim communities alongside relatively low growth in non-Muslim populations. Countries like France and Germany host significant Muslim populations, shaped by colonial legacies and immigration policies.
Despite the growth, Muslims in Europe navigate a complex terrain—facing rising anti-Islamic sentiment, especially in the wake of terror attacks that reinforce fears about radicalisation and integration. In many places, debates on Islam have shifted from welcoming pluralism toward anxiety over demographics and cultural change.
For Europe’s liberal democratic states, the challenge lies in reconciling religious diversification with social cohesion. The emerging trend calls for policies that respect religious freedom while safeguarding public order and common values—rather than treating Islam merely as a security concern or cultural threat.
The Impact of Islamic Civilization on the European Intellectual Awakening: An Analytical Study
The article systematically examines how medieval Islamic civilization catalyzed Europe’s intellectual revival through the Renaissance. It argues that during Europe’s so-called Dark Ages, when scholarly activity was largely confined to ecclesiastical debate, Muslim scholars were actively advancing mathematics, astronomy, philosophy, literature, and natural sciences. European exposure to this intellectual tradition—via translators, merchants, and scholars in regions like Spain and Sicily—enabled the West to access, adopt, and expand on the Greek and Islamic knowledge reservoirs.
The author presents a qualitative analysis of historical sources and contends that the infusion of this knowledge shifted Europe’s trajectory toward modern science and culture. While Islam-Europe contact was not a single cause, the study posits it as a significant legacy in breaking intellectual stagnation within Western Christendom. Integrating this perspective, the paper suggests that European awakening was as much a product of external knowledge exchange as internal renewal.
It cautions against underestimating the role of cross-civilisational flows in shaping European modernity and encourages modern scholars to re-frame the Renaissance not solely as a European home-grown phenomenon but as a confluence of multiple cultural currents.
The Spread of Islam in Europe: Historical Patterns and Contemporary Dynamics
This article traces the trajectory of Islam’s presence in Europe from the seventh century to the contemporary era, highlighting key historical patterns and dynamic transitions. It outlines early encounters—such as the Umayyad presence in Iberia and Ottoman expansion in the Balkans—while showing how modern migration, colonial legacies, and socioeconomic factors shaped today’s Muslim populations across the continent. The research emphasises that the spread of Islam cannot be understood as solely demographic or religious; it is deeply intertwined with cultural exchange, political structures, and economic agency.
On the contemporary front, the study examines how new Muslim communities navigate integration, identity, and social inclusion. It points to structural challenges, including segregation, discrimination, and political marginalisation, which influence separation or assimilation pathways. The article argues that European states face a choice between contested models of multiculturalism, assimilation, or civic pluralism.
The research's policy implications stress that responses must go beyond security frameworks. Effective integration strategies require attention to inclusion in education and employment, transparent institutional relationships, and recognition of Muslims as full participants in society. Ultimately, Europe’s future with its Muslim populations will depend less on numbers and more on the quality of accommodation and citizenship frameworks.
Modernity, Its Crisis and Islamic Revivalism
This article explores the complex global phenomenon of Islamic revivalism as a response to what many Muslims perceive as the ‘crisis of modernity’. The author argues that while modernity emphasises secularism and diminishes religion’s public role, many revivalist movements view this as a state of jahiliyya (ignorance) and seek to re-embed Islam into society’s structures. The study presents Islamic revivalism not as anti-modernity per se but as opposition to secularisation, attempting instead to reshape modern life through Islamic norms, economic systems, and institutional frameworks. Durable integration between faith and modernity is the ultimate aim for these movements. The paper emphasises that this current wave of revivalism is highly heterogeneous—spanning political parties, social movements, intellectual currents, and grassroots activism—and that its influence is rooted in dissatisfaction with the status quo rather than mere nostalgia. It concludes by framing Islamic revivalism as a sociological reaction to modernity’s promises unmet and argues that the future of modern societies depends on whether they accommodate such demands through dialogue, adaptation, and reform.
Rise of Islam in Europe and Its Consequences
Europe’s Muslim population has grown markedly, climbing from about 30 million in 1990 to more than 50 million by 2023. This growth makes Islam the second-largest religion on the continent and sets the stage for broad social and political shifts. Converts and migrants both contribute to the trend, with some embracing Islam as a faith of perceived equality and others arriving amid refugee flows triggered by conflict.
The article argues that far-right movements increasingly exploit this demographic change to advance agendas based on fear of Islam and cultural erosion. Public discourse is increasingly framed in terms of Islam versus Western values, and some policies respond with securitisation rather than inclusion. The result is rising societal tensions, repeated public-policy crises, and weakened trust between Muslim communities and mainstream society.
To navigate this landscape, the piece suggests that European states must move beyond reactive security measures and focus on structural integration: enabling economic mobility, promoting religious literacy, and strengthening civic identity that includes Muslims rather than alienating them. Failure to act may deepen social fragmentation and empower polarising narratives that threaten democratic cohesion.
The Future of Europe and Its Muslims: Four Scenarios
This policy paper presents four distinct demographic and sociopolitical scenarios for Europe and its Muslim populations, exploring potential trajectories through the mid-21st century and beyond. Key variables include migration flow, fertility differentials, integration policies, and political susceptibilities. One scenario anticipates significant Muslim-population growth shaped by sustained migration and higher fertility rates; another assumes low migration combined with conservative fertility trends, leading to more gradual change. A further outcome envisions integration successes that enable Muslims to participate fully in civic life, reducing friction with broader society. The final scenario considers marginalisation and segregation, fostering parallel societies.
The analysis emphasises that outcomes are neither predetermined nor driven solely by demography. Government policy, social inclusion, economic opportunity, and the resonance of identity politics all play major roles. The paper argues that Europe’s capacity to integrate rather than fragment will hinge on investing in inclusion measures, avoiding simplistic stereotypes, and promoting shared civic frameworks. The report underscores that proactive policy choices and engaged communities will determine whether these scenarios unfold as opportunity-rich or adversarial.
Europe’s New Approach to Islamism
European governments have shifted their focus from counter-terrorism to a broader strategy addressing the ideology of Islamism. The insight examines how policymakers are increasingly concerned with movements like the Muslim Brotherhood that, while not engaging in violence, promote religious-political visions that challenge liberal democratic norms.
France’s October 2020 strategy against “Islamist separatism” exemplifies this pivot, emphasising civic values, equality, and the protection of the republic. Those frameworks now treat Islamist activism not solely as a security threat but as a societal challenge requiring legal, financial, and cultural counter-measures.
The report notes that Islamist groups attempt to present themselves as moderate alternatives to violent extremism and to gain legitimacy within Muslim communities and civil society. Their influence grows via social, educational, and religious institutions, making it harder to distinguish between benign participation and ideological ambitions.
The new approach urges early-stage engagement, clearer boundaries between religion and politics, and more robust monitoring of ideological networks. For policymakers, the key lies in striking a balance between protecting democratic freedoms and disrupting parallel systems that undermine integration and social cohesion.
Islamic Activism in Europe: The Role of Converts
The article assesses the role of European converts to Islam in activism and radicalisation. Although converts account for a small fraction of Europe’s Muslim population, they have taken increasingly visible roles in Islamist movement spaces and in at least 40 documented terrorist plots over two decades. Their relatively low-visibility status within secular societies gives them access advantages, and their zeal often leads them to assert strong allegiance to their adopted faith.
The paper identifies motivations for conversion ranging from personal crisis or counter-culture search to marriage or identity exploration in post-Cold War Europe. Converts often adopt visible behavioural changes, affirming their commitment. In activism, they can express strong ideological positions, sometimes serving as social mobilisation catalysts in Islamist networks. However, the article notes they are not a monolithic group and emphasises the need to distinguish between non-violent activism and violent radicalisation.
Policy implications stress nuanced responses: targeting converts solely as security risks overlooks their diversity, while over-securitisation may alienate those committed to integration. Effective programmes emphasise early engagement, legal clarity, and community involvement to prevent covert activity from evolving into a threat.
The Crescent and the Union: Islam Returns to Western Europe
The article examines the resurgence of Islam in Western Europe, tracing changes in demographic presence, religious practice, and socio-political integration since 1950. It identifies three distinct waves: post-World War II labour migration, family reunion and refugee flows, and recent movements shaped by globalisation and identity politics. The author argues that this evolving Islamic presence challenges traditional European cultural norms but also offers pathways to pluralism if approached inclusively.
Key themes include the negotiation of identity by Muslim communities, the transformation of mosques into civic hubs beyond purely religious functions, and the persistent obstacles of discrimination, exclusion, and parallel social spaces. The piece warns that treating Islam solely as a security issue risks marginalising large segments of the population and undermining social cohesion.
In proposing responses, it stresses nuanced public-policy frameworks that combine integration efforts with respect for religious pluralism, proactive civic engagement, and transparent state-community partnerships. Ultimately, it frames the future of Europe’s Muslim population as neither a linear threat nor guaranteed success but as dependent on structural choices, institutional design, and the cultivation of mutual respect.
The Impact of the Arab Awakening on Muslim Radicalization in Europe: A Preliminary Assessment
This analysis examines how the Arab Awakening—starting in 2010–11—has influenced violent radicalization within Muslim diasporas in Europe, particularly those of North African origin. Although the uprisings were significant geopolitical events, the paper concludes that their effect on radicalization in Europe appears limited and may even be modestly positive. While a small minority will radicalize regardless of external events, the upheavals challenged jihadist narratives by showing that mass protest—not violence alone—could topple authoritarian regimes.
The study highlights that among second- and third-generation Muslims in Europe, identity factors such as alienation, discrimination, and peer-group dynamics are more directly relevant to radicalization than distant political events. At the same time, the paper warns of potential risks: if expectations raised by the revolutions go unmet, disillusionment could fuel extremist recruitment, and sectarian spill-overs or large migrant influxes may accelerate tensions.
The key policy insight: simply responding to global events is insufficient. Efforts must focus on structural factors—social inclusion, economic opportunity, civic identity—while monitoring ideological shifts and migration-related pressures. The path toward integration and resilience lies more in building shared institutions and trust than in reactive security frameworks.
Islamophobia in Spain in 2019
This analysis maps how Islamophobia is embedded in Spain’s media environment and social fabric, tracing roots from historical “Maurophobia” to contemporary coverage of Muslims as cultural “others.” It shows that roughly one in four articles mentioning Islam in major Spanish newspapers contained Islamophobic content, with conservative-leaning outlets and news agencies writing particularly prone to framing Muslims in terms of radicalisation, terrorism, the veil, or migration.
Data for 2017 registered over 500 Islamophobic incidents nationwide, with Catalonia leading by number. Social-media platforms amplified the trend: about half of the 269 recorded cyber-hate cases targeted Muslims via Facebook, Twitter, and Telegram. Experts identify five media-driven patterns fueling bias: far-right politics, mosque attacks, opposition to mosque construction, higher victimisation of Muslim women, and denial of Islam’s historical legacy in Spain. The report argues that conventional training guidelines for journalists—emphasising source diversity, distinction between opinion and reporting, and image verification—remain underused.
In conclusion, the piece emphasises that efforts to uphold ethical journalism and build inclusive narratives are critical to addressing Islamophobia in Spain’s public sphere.
Muslims in Europe: Between “European” and Islamic Values — An Identity Crisis
The article examines how Muslim communities in Europe navigate the tension between so-called “European” values—such as secularism, individual freedom, and liberal equality—and “Islamic” values that stress communal identity, religious obligation, and normative moral frameworks. It argues that the discord is not simply cultural but deeply rooted in competing conceptions of citizenship, secularism, and belonging. The author proposes that the notion of an “identity crisis” for Muslims in Europe emerges because integration models often assume that religious commitment can be privatized or attenuated, while many Muslims challenge that premise. At the same time, Europe’s secular tradition faces its own legitimacy question: its capacity to accommodate difference, faith, and civic belonging without alienating religious minorities. The paper suggests this dual pressure—on both European identity and Muslim belonging—is at the heart of the identity friction. The analysis underscores that resolving this tension will require reframing integration not as assimilation but as mutual adaptation. It recommends policy attention to inclusive citizenship frameworks, recognition of religious pluralism in the public sphere, and sustained inter-community dialogue to bridge value systems and promote shared belonging.
For a New Alterity of Islam in European Perspective
This article argues that Islam and Muslims in Europe are persistently subjected to an interpretive framework of “Otherness,” which casts them as inherently distinct or external to Western-European identity. The author critiques how this dynamic of alterity translates into exclusionary politics, social marginalisation, and the erosion of plural civic belonging. Moving beyond critique, the piece proposes a concept of new alterity that reframes Muslim presence in Europe—not as a deviation from the norm—but as an integral, differentiated element within democratic pluralism. Such an approach calls for reconceiving citizenship, public space, and cultural belonging in terms of mutual adaptation rather than assimilation or assimilationist change. The essay contends that meaningful inclusion requires the recognition of Muslims as active civic actors who shape, and are shaped by, European societies. It concludes by pointing to three policy-and-civic levers for advancing this vision: institutional acknowledgement of religious difference in public life, evolving media discourses that highlight diversity rather than uniformity, and collaborative inter-community frameworks that rebuild trust and mitigate othering.
From Transnational Islamic Movements to Individual Religiosity: The Crisis of Religious Authority in Western European Muslim Communities
The article charts the evolution of Islamic community dynamics in Western Europe over the past three decades, identifying a shift from structured, transnational movements toward more individualized and autonomous expressions of faith. Initially, migrant-communities aligned with “Embassy Islam” and global networks such as the Muslim Brotherhood and the Tablighi Jamaat, but these once-dominant organisations have yielded ground to youth-driven, locally anchored associations and reformist believers. The erosion of traditional religious authority emerges as a central theme. As access to online scholars multiplies and grassroots actors proliferate, community members increasingly craft their own religious paths, decoupled from institutional mediation. This individualisation reflects broader socio-religious trends of agency, choice, and contextual adaptation. Despite the diversity of actors, the weakening of consensus-based authority also raises questions about cohesion, normative direction, and governance within Muslim communities. For policymakers, scholars, and community-builders, the transition signals a need to rethink engagement strategies. Rather than relying on institutional interlocutors alone, meaningful inclusion now requires acknowledging pluralised authority, supporting relational networks, and creating space for bottom-up religious initiative.
Europe and Political Islam: Encounters of the 20th and 21st Century
This essay traces the evolution of political Islam in Europe from its marginal status in the mid-20th century to a defining feature of the continent’s socio-political landscape in the 21st. Initially perceived through the lenses of migration, decolonization, and Cold-War geopolitics, the relationship matured into debates about citizenship, secularism, and institutional integration. The author highlights how European institutions and national governments gradually confronted Islam not just as a faith but as a political actor, thereby reevaluating their approaches to religious plurality. The analysis emphasises three core dynamics: first, the institutionalisation of Muslim organisations within European civic frameworks and the accompanying question of representation and legitimacy; second, the framing of political Islam within security and terrorism discourses which reoriented public policy and community-state relations; third, the epistemological challenge posed to secularist assumptions—namely that religion and politics are separate—by movements and actors grounded in Muslim-heritage communities. Recognising that Europe’s engagement with political Islam has been less a linear trajectory of integration and more a series of shifting encounters, the essay calls for nuanced policy frameworks. These frameworks should balance religious freedom, political participation, and secular civic order while acknowledging that Muslim-heritage populations will continue to shape the future of European pluralism.
Growing Islamism in Europe Negatively Affects US Interests
The article argues that the spread of Islamism across Europe has increasingly become a concern for U.S. national interests. It notes that Islamist ideology—both violent and non-violent—has gained traction through social networks, civic institutions, and communal spaces, challenging European secular norms and influencing political dynamics. The analysis points to a history of major terror incidents in Europe, along with Islamist-inspired networks and “parallel societies,” as evidence that these trends affect allied stability and complicate transatlantic cooperation. It further suggests that European governments often treat Islamism as a domestic issue, whereas the United States must view it as a broader strategic challenge. Rising cultural and ideological turbulence in Europe is seen as carrying implications for U.S. policies on Israel and Iran, trans-Atlantic counter-terrorism partnerships, and Western unity in addressing Middle East issues. The piece concludes by recommending that U.S. policymakers engage European partners more deeply on ideological frameworks, not just security operations, thereby ensuring that advances in civil society and liberal order abroad also serve Washington's strategic outlook.
A Brief History of Islam in Europe: Thirteen Centuries of Creed, Conflict and Coexistence
This book offers a sweeping 13th-century exploration of how Islam has intersected with Europe—not simply as external influence, but as an enduring part of European history. Beginning with early incursions in the seventh century, the narrative proceeds through the Crusades, colonial eras, and modern migration to explain how Muslims and Islamic thought became woven into the European tapestry. The author emphasizes that the story is not one of perennial conflict but of layered interaction. Muslims have been conquerors, scholars, traders, and citizens, while Europe’s responses ranged from accommodation to antagonism. This framework challenges simplistic binaries of “Islam versus Europe” by reframing the question: how have European societies themselves defined Islam in relation to their identity, governance, and values? Key takeaways highlight that contemporary debates around secularism, integration, and religious freedom draw on centuries‐old precedents. The book, therefore, calls for policy and civic approaches rooted in awareness of these historical roots, rather than reactive short-term responses to modern problems.
Islamist Terrorist Attacks in the World: 1979-2024
This extensive dataset chronicles five decades of Islamist terrorism, documenting over 66,000 attacks between 1979 and April 2024 that resulted in at least 249,000 fatalities. The deadliest organisations include the Taliban (71,965 deaths), the Islamic State (69,641), Boko Haram (26,081), Al-Shabaab (21,784), and Al-Qaeda (14,856), together accounting for more than 80% of all deaths. The data reveal that Islamist violence is overwhelmingly concentrated in Muslim-majority countries; roughly 88% of victims were themselves Muslims. The most afflicted regions are South Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the Middle East. Europe accounts for a small proportion of total attacks and deaths, but still sees a disproportionate average number of fatalities per attack. Modes of violence have evolved over time: between 2001 and 201,2 the number of attacks quadrupled compared to the previous two decades, reflecting globalisation of jihadist networks, the rise of suicide tactics and online recruitment. Policy implications are significant. Effective responses require a dual approach: sustained counter-terror operations in hotspot regions and preventative strategies that address the drivers of radicalisation. These include improving governance, disrupting financing, enhancing community resilience, and ensuring transparency of civil society channels.