EU Intensifies Efforts to Combat Rising Anti-Muslim Sentiment
The European Union is stepping up initiatives to address the increasing wave of anti-Muslim hatred, with a focus on stronger policies to prevent incitement, Iqna reported citing Marion Lalisse, the European Commission’s coordinator on combating anti-Muslim hatred.
At a conference in Antalya, Turkey, Lalisse pointed out a notable rise in anti-Muslim hate crimes across EU countries following the outbreak of the Israeli conflict in Gaza.
Under the EU’s Digital Services Act, member states must implement measures to monitor and prevent online hate speech, she noted. This includes appointing “trusted flaggers,” often civic organizations, to identify harmful content on digital platforms, Lalisse added.
Statistics reveal a sharp increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes: Germany reported a rise from 610 cases in 2022 to 1,464 in 2023; Sweden saw a 70% increase in the latter half of 2023; and the UK’s Tell Mama organization recorded its highest number of incidents in February 2025.
Lalisse also highlighted growing hostility toward non-Muslim groups mistaken for Muslims, such as Sikhs and Arab Christians. An EU report noted that online discourse became more polarized after October 7, with some pro-Israeli content adopting anti-Muslim rhetoric.
She expressed concern over the erosion of civil liberties in several EU countries, including restrictions on civil society and freedom of association, often fueled by the false association of Islam with terrorism.
Lalisse urged Muslim communities in Europe to actively engage in shaping the EU’s anti-racism strategy for 2026-2030 by participating in public consultations, emphasizing that collective involvement is essential for meaningful change. “If it only comes from me, it’s not enough,” she stated.
