Muslim Presence in Europe: The British Dimension - Identity, Integration and Community Activism

Abstract

The Muslim presence in Britain has over the past decade become a significant factor in political, social and cultural spheres. There are a number of important imperatives central to the presence of Muslims in Britain within the context of Muslim social and political mobilization and state responses. It would appear that a situation of conflict exists between the Muslim minority in Britain, increasingly becoming concerned about its future, and a secular non-Muslim society. Increasingly, Muslim activism has posed challenges to state policy on issues and areas of importance such as education, religion and political representation. The situation of Muslim communities in Britain can be seen in the context of an ongoing process of accommodation and compromise between minorities and the dominant mainstream. The images of Islam and Muslims in western discourses are also central to any understanding of the presence of Muslims in the broader context of the European Union. The Islamic concept of ummah is equally relevant in the discussion of a Muslim diaspora and Muslim citizenship. The article addresses issues that are central to the ongoing debate about the socioeconomic position and political activism of British Muslims.