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(Non-)radicalization: Why do young Muslims in Europe reject Islamic Extremism?

This study addresses the research gap concerning why some Muslims in Europe reject extremist Islam and do not radicalize, despite the growing prevalence and concern of radicalization within European societies. Through semi-structured interviews with Muslims living in Europe, this research explores their attitudes towards extremist Islam and the factors influencing their rejection of such ideologies. The findings highlight the critical role of religious education, personal reflection, and supportive social surroundings. Respondents emphasized understanding Islam as a peaceful religion, advocating for personal freedom, tolerance, and intercultural dialogue. The study also notes the protective influence of family guidance and the absence of close contact with extremists. These insights align with existing models differentiating moderate and extremist Islam and suggest that fostering religious literacy and critical thinking can be effective in countering radicalization. The study's limitations, including its sample composition and potential interviewer effects, suggest the need for further research across diverse demographic groups to fully understand the mechanisms behind non-radicalization.

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:UPSALLA1/oai:DiVA.org:hj-65455
Date January 2024
CreatorsWeidemann, Henrike
PublisherJönköping University, HLK, Globala studier
Source SetsDiVA Archive at Upsalla University
LanguageEnglish
Detected LanguageEnglish
TypeStudent thesis, info:eu-repo/semantics/bachelorThesis, text
Formatapplication/pdf
Rightsinfo:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess

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