Islam and Security in the West

“A subject of enduring significance, examined here in comparative, multi-disciplinary and historically-minded manner. A fascinating and impressive book.” 

– Professor Richard English, author of Does Terrorism Work? A History

“A key strength of Islam and Security in the West is its stubborn insistence on a close examination of the actual lived experience and grassroots perspectives of ‘frontline’ communities on the Western front of the (so-called) Global War on Terror. As the 21st Century continues its troubled evolution, this important collection of essays looks set to remain both timely and provocative.”

– Dr Tim Wilson, Director, Handa Centre for the Study of Terrorism and Political Violence (CSTPV), University of St Andrews

“The diversity of expertise of the contributors means that while it is enriching it is also bound to intellectually stimulate, excite and agitate the reader. This is a major contribution to the thinking and concerned reader. A must read.”

– Professor Akbar Ahmed, Ibn Khaldun Chair of Islamic Studies, School of International Service, American University, Washington DC

What changes have the terrorist attacks on the United States in 2001 and the subsequent attacks in Europe brought to Western societies? In what ways have these events and their aftermath impacted on the relationships between Muslim communities and Western societies? This book explores the remaking of the relationship between Islam and Islamism, on the one hand, and security and securitization, on the other hand, by arguing that 9/11 and its aftermath have led to the opening of a new phase in Western and European history and have remade the relationship between Islam and governmental and societal approaches to security. The authors utilize case studies across the Western world to understand this relationship.

Stefano Bonino, PhD, is the author of Muslims in Scotland: The Making of Community in a Post-9/11 World.

Roberta Ricucci is Professor of Sociology of Islam and Sociology of Migration at the University of Torino, Italy.