Muslims across Europe are experiencing increasing levels of racism and discrimination, according to a recent report from the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA). The agency highlighted a troubling trend of anti-Muslim sentiment that has intensified sharply since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which triggered retaliatory actions in Gaza. This violence has led to a notable spike in both anti-Muslim and anti-Semitic incidents across various EU nations.
The FRA’s findings reveal that nearly half of Muslims in the EU report facing discrimination in their daily lives—a significant increase from 39% in 2016. The highest levels of reported discrimination are in Austria, Germany, and Finland. Sirpa Rautio, the FRA director, emphasized that this surge in anti-Muslim sentiment is exacerbated by ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and the dehumanizing rhetoric prevalent throughout Europe.
From October 2021 to October 2022, more than 9,600 Muslims across 13 EU countries were surveyed. The results indicate that not only are Muslims targeted for their faith, but they also face discrimination based on their skin color and ethnic or immigrant backgrounds. Young Muslims born in Europe and women who wear religious attire are particularly vulnerable to this backlash.
The report specifically notes a rise in anti-Muslim sentiment within the job market, leading to significant socioeconomic challenges. For instance, 41% of Muslims are overqualified for their jobs compared to just 22% of the general population. Additionally, one-third of Muslim households report struggling to make ends meet, a stark contrast to 19% of households overall. Many Muslims also face overcrowded living conditions, further highlighting the disparities they encounter.
The Muslim population in the EU is estimated at around 26 million, constituting approximately 5% of the total EU population. The number of Muslims has grown substantially in recent years, largely due to migration from conflict-affected regions such as Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria.
In July, the FRA also reported a disturbing rise in anti-Semitism in Europe, linking it to the ongoing Middle Eastern conflicts, which seem to be eroding the progress made in combating such hatred.
As the crisis deepens, the continued rise in Islamophobia presents urgent challenges for social cohesion and human rights in Europe, underscoring the need for collective action against all forms of discrimination.
