Spain Launches National Guide to Combat Islamophobia and Correct Misconceptions About Muslims

Spain Launches National Guide to Combat Islamophobia and Correct Misconceptions About Muslims
…………

In a first-of-its-kind initiative in Europe, the Spanish government has released a comprehensive national guide to combat Islamophobia and challenge misinformation about Islam and Muslims. The guide aims to counter rising hate speech and racism, particularly against Muslim immigrants, both in public discourse and on social media.

Based on official data, the report refutes economic and social myths about Muslim migrants. It highlights that foreign residents contribute around 10% of Spain’s social security revenue while accounting for only 1% of public spending. According to the OECD, migrants cost the state 32% less than citizens and contribute an average net gain of €1,600 annually.

The guide notes that migrants’ labor participation rate stands at 69.3%, compared with 56.4% among locals, underscoring their essential role in sectors like agriculture, construction, and tourism. It also records over 600,000 anti-Muslim posts online in the first eight months of 2025 and reports that 31% of Muslims have faced discrimination, mainly in housing.

The guide rejects the notion of “Islamization,” noting Muslims comprise only 2% of Spain’s population. Al-Azhar Observatory welcomed the initiative as a model for promoting coexistence, urging other European nations to adopt similar inclusive approaches.