Islamophobia Watch

"The pluralistic societies in Europe are now showing a degree of prejudice and hatred even against those Muslim immigrants that have lived there for two or three generations, reminiscent of attitudes during the colonial era. Acts of vandalism against mosques and other symbols of Islamic culture are becoming commonplace and a strong movement is running across the continent against Muslim immigrants.

"Islamophobia in Europe is not at the ignorant grassroots level, but the political parties, academics and social leaders seem to share such outlandish views. Headscarves worn by Muslim school girls were perceived by President Chirac as a threat to French identity. Famous British politician Jack Straw declared that veils in public institutions were unacceptable. The political manifestos in some European countries are based on draconian immigration laws to keep their countries 'pure'....

"The right-wing political parties that normally remain on the fringe have exploited the sentiments of the people. A number of cases have been documented of denial and discrimination in employment, housing, and education. The trend is spreading in countries like Holland, Belgium and France.

"All kinds of phrases like 'Militant Islam', 'Radical Islam', 'Islamist', and 'Extremist Islam' have been coined. There is no genuine urge or effort to understand Islam. Such phrases are deemed expressive enough to project Islam as a living threat to European culture and societies. In this climate of prejudice and hostility, the tide of hatred is rising. Europe is losing its identity based on tolerance and inter-racial harmony, justice, and democratic traditions."

Tayyab Siddiqui in The Post, 23 October 2007