ACROSS Europe, over the past several years far-right governments have either taken power in a number of states, or are knocking at the gates. Though rightist forces are on the march in many parts of the world, and not just Europe, there are numerous factors fuelling this trend on the continent. These include the flood of refugees making a beeline for Europe, as well as militant attacks. These factors have heightened fear of the ‘other’, particularly the Muslim ‘other’, and Islamophobia has been rapidly gaining ground in such an environment. One example of state-backed efforts to counter ‘radical’ Islam emerged recently when Austria’s right-wing government announced it was shutting down seven mosques and expelling a number of imams for links with “political Islam”. In an ominous sign, the Austrian vice chancellor has said “this is just the beginning”. Turkey, which supports many mosques in Austria, has termed the move “Islamophobic, racist and discriminatory”.

Indeed in Europe and other mainly non-Muslim regions, radical elements have used mosques to spread extremist ideas. However, sweeping moves against places of worship without solid evidence are unacceptable. If European or other Western states have concrete evidence that a certain mosque is being used by extremist elements, they should proceed as per the law. But witch hunts against those peacefully practising their religion are not acceptable, especially given Europe’s recent history and its flirtation with fascism. It is a fact that many in the far right have a problem with the Islamic faith itself, and not with radicalism. If Europe claims to respect diversity and fundamental rights, then it must stand up to such parochial moves against a certain faith or community. It is also true that the followers of all faiths are free to live as they wish in Europe. These values must be preserved while the rightist march must be checked.

Published in Dawn, June 11th, 2018