The Islamic Challenge

Culture Clash?

Since the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, the cultural and religious differences between Europe’s Muslims and Christians have become more visible. This is especially true in predominantly Christian Western Europe, where new Muslim immigrants have created their own social and religious institutions. As more Muslim immigrants continue to come to Europe, local governments prognosticate about forming effective social policies to incorporate the new arrivals.

In the 1950s and 1960s, they could delay because most Muslim workers in Europe were single men who worked seasonally and sent their wages home. As Muslim immigrants sought more permanent status in Europe, absorption and social welfare issues moved to the political forefront. Today estimates say 15 million Muslims live in Western Europe, although this number is considered inflated. Public reaction ranges from mixed to unfavorable. People question Muslim loyalty to Western values, and worry about certain cultural practices, such as Muslim dress and Shariah law. Several high-profile terrorist arrests have further inflamed public concerns. Despite the tensions, observers who looked for a “...