introduction :
Europe is currently facing a major challenge: understanding and managing the Muslim Brotherhood’s growing influence on the continent. During my exclusive interview with Sky News Arabia, I analyzed the dynamics of their presence, their expansion strategy, and the challenges they pose to European governments.
A Complex and Decentralized Structure
The Muslim Brotherhood in Europe does not operate like a traditional Middle Eastern political party. Their organization is based on a decentralized structure, coordinated by the European Council of Muslims located in Brussels. The latter oversees several influential entities, such as:
- The European Council for Fatwa and Research
- The Forum of European Muslim Youth and Student Organizations
- L’Institut européen des sciences humaines
These organizations offer religious, educational, and social services, thereby strengthening their influence within European Muslim communities.
Discreet yet Powerful Local Networks
In countries such as France, Germany, Belgium, Austria, and the United Kingdom, the Muslim Brotherhood relies on mosques, schools, and community associations. These entities, often registered under neutral names, make it difficult to directly identify them with the group.
In France, for example, there are 147 affiliated mosques and 18 Islamic schools. In Germany, the Islamic Union in Germany is their main front, while in the United Kingdom, organizations like the Muslim Council of Great Britain play a key role.
A long-term influence strategy
Unlike other organizations, the Muslim Brotherhood favors a legal and institutional approach to establish a lasting presence. Their objective is clear: to have a profound societal impact by leveraging European policies’ freedoms and differences.
However, government responses vary:
- France and Austria: Strict policies, bans, and enhanced surveillance.
- United Kingdom and Belgium: More permissive approaches, focused on combating terrorism rather than political Islam.
An Expanding Presence:
In France, the number of members has doubled in five years, reaching nearly 100,000 in 2024. Simultaneously, the group is intensifying its presence in Eastern Europe, particularly in Bosnia-Herzegovina, to escape security pressures in Western Europe.
Conclusion :
The Muslim Brotherhood in Europe represents a unique challenge for governments. Their decentralized structure, adaptability, and long-term strategy require a coordinated and thoughtful response.
To learn more, check out my full interview on Sky News Arabia: Link to the article.
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