Muslim Minority Research Articles

Islamism and nationalism: how did old enemies become new allies?

AbstractHistorically, religion and nationalism were opposing forces in many countries. Recently, however, they began to converge as part of rising populist movements globally. In the Muslim world, the partnership between Islamists and nationalists has become evident in several important countries such as Turkey, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Malaysia. This merging of Islamism and populist nationalism in the last decade signifies a third period in the Muslim world, following the era of secularist domination (1920s–1970s) and the era of Islamization (1970s–2010s). Some Islamic conservatives might regard the unification of religious and nationalist forces as beneficial to their conservative agenda. Nonetheless, this comes at the high cost of discrimination against Muslim minorities in several countries, such as India, Israel, the United States, and France. Beyond Muslim-majority countries and Muslim minorities, the global trend of advancing a religious-nationalist agenda threatens minority rights. This trend poses a major challenge to democracy, equal citizenship, and minority rights worldwide.

Search for Durable Solution to the Rohingya Refugee Crisis in Bangladesh

Abstract The Rohingya, a Muslim minority living mainly in the northern Rakhine state of Myanmar, are considered illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, despite the fact that they have settled in Myanmar for hundreds of years. Myanmar recognized 135 ethnic groups under the 1982 Citizenship Act which excludes the Rohingya as an ethnic group in Myanmar and they became stateless. Myanmar Security Forces have committed grave violation of human rights against Rohingya. The latest attack in 2017 was more heinous than in 1978, 1992, and 2012. As of June 2018, The Rohingya refugee in Bangladesh was portrayed as a protracted refugee situation. In many protracted refugee situations, a durable solution such as local integration, resettlement and voluntary repatriations needed to be implemented to end the prolonged displacement. The aim of this paper is to discuss the most feasible durable solutions to be implemented to repatriate Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh.

Addressing Inheritance and Divorce Disputes in Deathbed Situations: A Maslahah-Based Study of South Africa�s Muslim Minority

South Africa features a blend of legislative regulations, customary laws, and evolving legal principles. This dynamic becomes especially complex for the small Muslim community, which must also adhere to Islamic Law, particularly in matters of inheritance distribution. Currently, South African legal references regarding inheritance under Islamic law are limited. This article seeks to analyze a specific inheritance case in which a husband, on his deathbed, has two wives, a son, and a daughter. The first wife was divorced while he was on his deathbed, and during this period, he married another woman before ultimately passing away. In his will, the husband stipulated that the estate should be distributed according to Islamic law, thus entitling his legitimate wife to inheritance. This study employs descriptive qualitative research using scenario-thinking methods to explore potential future outcomes for which no legal precedent exists. In analyzing this case, the concept of public interest (maslahah) emerges as a relevant theory aligned with the principle of justice. Various scholarly opinions from Islamic legal schools were also utilized in the analysis. The article recommends that the South African Muslim Judicial Council prioritize maslahah, proposing that both wives share 3/24 of the estate, the son receive 14/24, and the daughter receive 7/24. Although this decision has not yet been formally recognized in Islamic law, it can be viewed as an act of independent reasoning (ijtihad) based on the principle of justice through the approach of public interest without specific textual evidence (maslahah mursalah). Additionally, rationalized public interest (maslahah ma�qul al-ma�na) was applied to allocate inheritance to the first wife, acknowledging her extended time with the deceased husband.

Sinicizing China’s World Muslim City: Spatial Politics, National Narratives, and Ethnoreligious Assimilation in the PRC

Abstract The nation-state is as much a narrative and ideational project as it is a spatial-territorial one. In the People’s Republic of China, Xi Jinping’s calls to “revitalize” China’s traditional culture, “Sinicize” religions, and “rejuvenate” the Chinese nation reflect a broader effort to reframe the national narrative and strengthen Communist Party control. This article examines the implications of Xi’s revisionist nationalism for China’s fifty-five minority nationalities, in particular the Hui, one of ten Muslim minority groups. It does so by analyzing the rise and demise of World Muslim City (WMC), a development project in western China that mobilized Hui identity and traditions for economic and diplomatic purposes. WMC was facilitated by a multicultural national narrative and by a fragmented authoritarian political system that for many years fostered policy improvisation, and deviation, at the local level. Its suspension underscores the increasingly anti-Muslim, anti-religious tenor of PRC policy, as evidenced by the Sinicization campaign that was a proximate cause of WMC’s demise. Its demise also highlights ongoing efforts to reassert CCP control over government, business, and the Party’s own rank-and-file. The fate of WMC furthermore reveals the spatial dimensions of Sinicization, and of Chinese cultural governance past and present. To paraphrase theorist Henri Lefebvre, Sinicization entails “spatial practices” that impose Xi-ist “representations of space” on lived “representational spaces,” from mosques and businesses to theme parks and luxury resorts.

“Neither of the East nor of the West”

What does it mean to do Islamic Studies within Religious Studies? Taking the cue from Thomas A. Tweed's intervention, this article discusses new theoretical and methodological approaches in Religious Studies and their relevance to researching Islam. Such approaches cross geographical, disciplinary, and intellectual boundaries while equally being emplaced in particular socio-cultural contexts that inform their perspectives. In order to overcome statist, normative, and essentialist understandings of Islam, the article explores three key themes: ambiguity, multi-locality, and aesthetics. When we approach the intellectual history of Islam, not only its diversity and plurality become obvious but also its culture of ambiguity, which is at ease with contradictions and inconsistencies. Recent reflections on diaspora religions decentre Islamic Studies from the Middle East and allow for exploring the multiple transnational connections between Muslim minority and majority contexts. Such approaches illustrate the multi-locality of Islam. Finally, the article explores what it means to approach Islam as an aesthetic formation in which rituals as embodied experiences and material sensory culture are central in forging and articulating Muslim individual and collective identities.

Islamic work ethics in a complex, conflicted cultural milieu: The case of indigenous Palestinian Arab high school teachers in Israel

This study focuses on Islamic work ethics (IWE) among Indigenous Palestinian Arab high school teachers in Israel. With the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, this predominantly Muslim Palestinian Arab minority experienced rapid socioeconomic change, as well as repression of its socio-political and cultural background and values. Despite its incorporation into a Western-oriented country, the core principles of Islam continue to have broad influence on the Palestinian Arab minority in Israel, as well as applications to many areas of life, including work values. The study sample included 1245 high school teachers. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were utilized to establish a reliable model of IWE, resulting in two reliable IWE dimensions: “dedication and social responsibility at work” and “independence, diligence, and achievement at work.” Indigenous Palestinian Arab teachers reported high IWE levels, although this differed by gender and age group. The IWE scale appears to be a valuable measure for describing the work-related values of Indigenous Palestinian Arab high school teachers in Israel.

Politicization of the Jewish and Muslim minorities in Poland

With Poland’s political transformation after 1989, religious minorities including Jews and Muslims gained more autonomy and support from the state authorities. At the same time, the liberal democracy principles of religious equality and the state’s neutrality have still not been fully implemented. The paper focuses on this problematic situation, using the concept of politicization to portray the situation of the Jews and Muslims in contemporary Poland, and their relations with the Polish state. It presents four instances of politicization of religious minorities (specifically, Muslims and/or Jews). The research is based on public surveys, interviews with members of the Jewish and Muslim communities, legal documents, and NGO reports. According to the hypothesis of the paper, Muslims and Jews are significantly politicized in the Polish public discourse, and both communities play significant roles in shaping the political identity of the Polish polity. Their roles differ in character due to historical factors and the contemporary international context.

‘Muslim minorities’ in Kraków? Inter-relations between the Urban living spaces and the experience of spatial life of minority groups

‘Muslim minorities’ in Kraków? Inter-relations between the Urban living spaces and the experience of spatial life of minority groups

Perspektif Fiqih Minoritas Yusuf Al-Qardhawi Dalam Penentuan Awal Waktu Salat Di Daerah Kutub

This study discusses the determination of the beginning of prayer times in polar regions that do not experience day and night changes as other regions normally do. The discussion will use the theory of thought from Yusuf Al-Qardhawi about minority fiqh. This study uses a library method with reference sources from books, scriptures, or articles related to the theme discussed. Furthermore, it is analyzed with qualitative data to find a complete understanding. The results are that the existing problems are in line with religious teachings and existing social realities. So with the existence of minority fiqh, it can provide a relevant legal perspective. With this discovery, it is hoped that it can contribute to minority fiqh that is by the social and cultural context that exists in Muslim minorities wherever they are.

Post-Salafism in Cambodia: From counterreligion to accommodation

ABSTRACT Over the last decade, Salafism among Cambodia’s Muslim minority has undergone substantial transformation. Initially, it functioned as a counterreligion, with participants claiming to hold the absolute truth and aiming to purify ‘corrupted’ Muslim practices like celebrating the Prophet’s birthday, following the shafiʿilegal school, and engaging in rituals influenced by Cham, Malay, and Khmer traditions. Recently, young Salafis have revised their attitudes, seeking cooperation and understanding with their main competitors, the shafiʿis and the Jamaʿat al-Tabligh movement. The article explores the factors that triggered these developments and examines how they are unfolding in the sociopolitical context of Cambodia’s Muslim minority. The article delves into the establishment of Salafism in Cambodia and analyses the contributing factors to its remarkable success among the country’s Muslim minority. Then, it explores the emergence of post-Salafism through a process of indigenization by presenting two ethnographic case studies. The first investigates aspirations of the young Muslim middle class and the influence of post-Salafi trends from South Thailand and Malaysia. The second examines how post-Salafism reinterprets young Muslims’ sense of belonging to Cambodia and their relationship with national symbols. The article chiefly relies on semi-structured interviews with dozens of young Cambodian Muslims conducted between 2019 and 2023.

Islamic Values in a Multicultural Society: An Analysis of Parenting and Social Integration of Muslim Minorities

This research examines Islamic education parenting and social integration of Muslim minorities in Tanjung Labu Village, Rantau Pulung Sub-district, East Kutai Regency. Using a qualitative method with a case study approach, this research aims to understand the dynamics of Islamic education and social integration strategies in the context of multicultural communities in transmigration areas. Data were collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis. The results show that the minority Muslim community in Tanjung Labu Village applies a variety of parenting patterns, from those that tend to be authoritarian in matters of principle to those that are more democratic in other aspects. Social integration efforts are seen in various aspects of life, including education, economy, and culture. Programs such as ‘Friday Taqwa’ in schools and cooperation in farmer groups show positive steps in realizing social integration. However, the research also identified challenges such as the lack of special programs for converts and potential discrimination. The study concludes that efforts to strengthen the social integration of Muslim minorities require a holistic, inclusive, and sustainable approach, involving the active role of the Muslim community and support from various relevant parties. The findings make an important contribution to understanding the complexities of Islamic education and social integration in minority contexts, as well as highlighting the importance of empowering Muslim converts.

The impact of the Prevent Agenda on social work: a systematic literature review

The Prevent Agenda, introduced in 2006, is a counter-terrorism strategy aiming to address radicalisation and extremist behaviour. This systematic literature review (SLR) focuses on its impact on child protection social work, examining how it influences roles, responsibilities and decision-making processes. Analysing articles, governmental reports and relevant literature, the review explores outcomes, such as improved inter-agency communication and heightened awareness of radicalisation risk factors. However, much more pronounced in the literature are very significant concerns that arise about potential biases in targeting, marginalising Muslim minorities and alienating families from support. This SLR offers insights into the multifaceted effects of Prevent on child protection social work, families and communities. Identifying trends and knowledge gaps contributes to understanding how counterterrorism intersects with child welfare. The review’s implications inform policy, professional training and future research for a balanced approach to national security and child and family well-being.

Impressive Factors of the Victimization of Shiite Muslim Minorities in Afghanistan: A Case Study District 13 of Kabul during the Pre-Taliban Period.

Shiite Muslims are one of the most influential ethnic minorities in Afghanistan. It appears that they are more victims of violence than other population groups in Afghanistan. On the other hand, the victimization rate in society is one of the most critical issues in criminology. Being victimized can lead to property loss, psychological trauma, and even death. Sensitive ethnic minorities are particularly pronounced in these challenges, especially in traditional societies such as Afghanistan. Therefore, the victimization rate and its influential factors among Shiite Muslims in Afghanistan need to be carefully analyzed. This is a survey study whose statistical population includes all residents of District 13 of Kabul, 285 of whom were selected using a structured questionnaire designed by the researcher and a multistage cluster sampling method. In addition, a multiple-choice Likert scale was used to measure the dependent and independent variables. The study's results indicate that more than 75% of the respondents and, in the past 5 years, more than 80% of their friends and family members have been victimized. In addition, respondents reported that the overall average probability of victimization over the next 10 years is 3.41 (the probability rate ranged from a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 5). Women were more likely to be victimized than men, with average victimization rates of 1.38 and 1.24, respectively (the probability rate ranged from a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 2). There was also a significant positive correlation between victimization and other variables such as age, gender, marital status, education level, and economic status.

Rights of Muslim Minorities in Contemporary India: A Critical Analysis

This paper examines the rights of Muslim minorities in contemporary India. It analyzes their legal status, political representation, and socioeconomic conditions. The study explores challenges Muslims face in areas such as education, religious freedom, and personal security. It also looks at discrimination issues and the unique challenges confronting Muslim women. The paper reviews government policies aimed at protecting minority rights and the role of civil society in advocating for Muslims. By examining these various aspects, this research provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of Muslim minority rights in India. It highlights both progress made and ongoing challenges, offering insights into the complex dynamics of religious minority rights in a diverse democracy

Intercultural training as paradigm juxtaposition, and the need to differentiate critical cross-cultural management studies: The example of ‘managing Muslim minorities at work’

Intercultural training as paradigm juxtaposition, and the need to differentiate critical cross-cultural management studies: The example of ‘managing Muslim minorities at work’

A populist desecuritisation? Mélenchon, left-wing populism, and the fight against Islamophobia in France

Abstract While there is literature on ‘populist securitisation’ and on the ‘securitisation of Islam’, the possibility that some populists may desecuritise Islam is not sufficiently explored. Left-wing populist parties have demonstrated solidarity towards Muslim minorities in Europe through a discourse based on inclusionary rhetoric and deconstruction of the securitising narratives promoted by mainstream and populist right-wing parties. However, their attitude towards Islam can be ambiguous. This paper argues that left-wing populists tend to desecuritise Islam. However, desecuritisation happens in ways that do not always accommodate Muslims’ religious freedoms. This happens because the driver of the left-wing populist desecuritisation of Islam lies in the left-wing thick ideology surrounding populism and not in the populist thin core. I illustrate this argument through the case study of Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the left-wing populist party La France Insoumise. Through a discourse analysis of texts from 2009 to 2022, I show that Mélenchon has predominantly desecuritised Islam. While his desecuritisation is populist, it has not been truly emancipatory for Muslims. Although a more committed fight against Islamophobia has emerged since 2019, Mélenchon’s ideological attachment to laïcité hinders a full rearticulation of French political community based on genuine recognition of Muslims’ religious freedoms.

Re‐thinking how we study Muslim minorities in Europe—A call for de‐Muslimification

Re‐thinking how we study Muslim minorities in Europe—A call for <i>de‐Muslimification</i>

Social Inclusion as A Challenge of Multiculturalism in Germany: A Study on Muslim Minorities

Multiculturalism emphasises cultural and religious diversity in society. It plays an important role in the German context. However, its application in the country still faces challenges that affect the social inclusion of the Muslim minority. Social inclusion is crucial for accepting and integrating minorities into the majority society. Muslim minorities in Germany face several challenges, including discrimination, economic inequality, and limited access to education and employment opportunities. Discrimination is a significant barrier to social inclusion, as stereotypical perceptions and prejudices against their religion and culture often lead to discriminatory experiences in everyday life. Social inclusion is negatively impacted by economic hardship, which limits access to decent employment and equal income. Additionally, limited access to education complicates the integration of Muslim minorities, reducing their chances of achieving economically viable employment and contributing positively to society. Additionally, limited access to education complicates the integration of Muslim minorities, reducing their chances of achieving economically viable employment and contributing positively to society. Additionally, limited access to education complicates the integration of Muslim minorities, reducing their chances of achieving economically viable employment and contributing positively to society. It is important to address inequality in access to education to promote social inclusion. This article explores the factors that affect the social inclusion of Muslim minorities in Germany. Relevant case studies are used to analyze the impact of these factors on the daily lives of Muslim minorities. The article also discusses the efforts that can be made by the government, community organizations, and individuals to improve social inclusion. The aim of this article is to comprehensively address the challenges faced by Muslim minorities in Germany with regards to social inclusion. The goal is to find solutions that promote social justice and equality for all citizens.

Readiness Society to Enter the Era of Halal Drug Certification Mandatory in Terms of Knowledge, Perceptions, and Attitudes

The halal lifestyle trend is currently developing in various regions of the world, not only in areas where the majority of the population is Muslim but also where the population is Muslim minority. This study aims to determine the level and correlation of public knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes toward halal medicine and correlation with demographic data. This cross-sectional study was conducted online using a validated questionnaire, conducted in January-February 2023 on 600 respondents in six provinces of Java Island, using a purposive sampling method with inclusion criteria over 17 years old and exclusion criteria not being a doctor or pharmacist. The Spearman test was used to correlate knowledge-perception-attitude, and the Chi-square test was used to correlate demographic data with knowledge, attitude, and perception. The results showed that the level of public knowledge was sufficient (mean score 33.74 ± 2.37), the perception was sufficient (mean score 35.91 ± 3.47) and the attitude was sufficient (mean score 31.17 ± 4.25) towards halal medicine. Age, education, and place of work affect knowledge; and place of work affects perception. It is concluded that the community has sufficient knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes, knowledge-perception is significantly correlated, knowledge-attitude is weak and perception-attitude is strongly correlated

Historical Studies: The Social Life Of Muslim Minorities In The United States

This article describes the history of Islamic civilization in the Muslim minority country of America. The United States is secular but provides opportunities for every religion to grow and develop. The development of Islam in America cannot be separated from the scholars there. The method used in this paper is the Library research method (literature study). The results of this study noted that Islam is very developed in America compared to other religions when many Americans embrace Islam. Several Islamic financial and banking institutions were established in America Finance House Riba in California, which offers home financing based on Sharia principles. In addition, the emergence of Islamic economics and finance in this country was not as smooth as in other countries. Muslim minorities have established large organizations to help each other, such as ISNA, CAIR, and Islamic Relief USA.