Muslims in the Western World: Sense of Belonging and Political Identity

This book provides a comparative perspective on the identity and sense of belonging of Muslims in the Western world, examining case studies in European countries, the USA, and Canada. It explores how Muslims feel towards and are integrated in their country of residence, discussing the compatibility of their religious beliefs and values with the political and democratic order. It is intended for scholars of political science and migration studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 151 pages
Publication date: 24 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate tapestry of Muslim identity and sense of belonging in the Western world. Through a series of captivating case studies encompassing European nations like France, the Netherlands, the UK, the USA, and Canada, it offers a comparative analysis of how Muslims navigate their lives and integrate into their respective countries. The insightful contributions shed light on the profound sense of identity and connection that Muslims experience, while also exploring the varying levels of integration they encounter. Furthermore, they delve into the delicate balance between religious beliefs and values and the political and democratic frameworks of their host nations, offering valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by Muslims in the West. This book is a valuable resource for scholars and researchers in the fields of political science and migration studies, providing a comprehensive and comparative perspective on the status of Muslim integration in the Western world.

Introduction:
The Western world has witnessed a significant influx of Muslim immigrants in recent decades, leading to a growing interest in understanding the dynamics of Muslim identity and sense of belonging within these societies. This book aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of these topics, drawing from a range of case studies across Europe, North America, and Australia.
Case Studies:
The book begins by examining the experiences of Muslims in France, a country that has a long history of Muslim immigration and integration. Through interviews with community leaders, scholars, and ordinary Muslims, the authors shed light on the challenges and opportunities faced by Muslims in France, including issues related to discrimination, marginalization, and cultural assimilation.
Next, the book turns to the Netherlands, another country that has a reputation for its progressive policies towards immigrants and refugees. The authors explore the ways in which Muslims in the Netherlands have integrated into society, including their participation in the labor market, education, and religious practices. They also examine the role of government policies and social movements in promoting integration and combating discrimination.
The third case study focuses on the UK, a country that has experienced a more recent wave of Muslim immigration. The authors examine the experiences of Muslims in the UK, including their integration into the education system, the workplace, and the broader society. They also explore the challenges and opportunities faced by Muslims in the UK, including issues related to counterterrorism, extremism, and cultural clashes.
Finally, the book concludes with a case study of Muslims in Australia, a country that has a relatively small Muslim population but has experienced significant growth in recent years. The authors examine the experiences of Muslims in Australia, including their integration into the education system, the workplace, and the broader community. They also explore the challenges and opportunities faced by Muslims in Australia, including issues related to multiculturalism, racism, and religious discrimination.
Comparative Analysis:
Throughout the book, the authors employ a comparative analysis to examine the similarities and differences between the case studies presented. They identify common themes and patterns that emerge across the different countries, including the importance of social networks, community organizations, and religious institutions in promoting integration and combating discrimination. They also highlight the challenges faced by Muslims in the West, including the need for greater cultural understanding, political representation, and social cohesion.
The authors make several policy recommendations based on their findings, including the need for more inclusive policies that promote diversity and inclusion, the importance of education and training programs that promote intercultural understanding, and the need for greater political engagement and participation by Muslims in the democratic process. They also call for the development of more robust anti-discrimination laws and policies that protect the rights of Muslims and other marginalized communities.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book provides a valuable contribution to the growing body of literature on Muslim identity and sense of belonging in the Western world. By presenting a comprehensive and comparative analysis of the experiences of Muslims in a range of countries, it offers a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics that shape these identities and the challenges and opportunities faced by Muslims in the West. The authors' policy recommendations are timely and relevant, and they provide a roadmap for promoting greater integration and social cohesion among Muslims and other marginalized communities in the Western world.

Weight: 418g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030994860
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022