Islamophobia and Securitisation

"This thought-provoking and provocative interview-based study fills an important academic lacuna in exploring the Dutch Muslim community’s views on public discourse, government policies, and media portrayal regarding (counter-)radicalization."

—Rik Peels, Associate Professor, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands

"The authors offer a vivid and necessary analysis, and critically reflect on the relation between Islamophobia and radicalisation. The book is, therefore, an essential point of departure for scholars, students, policymakers, and journalists."

—Martijn de Koning, Associate Professor, Radboud University Nijmegen, the Netherlands

This book examines how Muslim communities in the Netherlands perceive and experience extremism, counter-radicalisation policies, and Islamophobia. It is based on the findings of two original qualitative research investigations conducted in the Netherlands, in which thirty scholars, imams, mosque board members, and representatives of Islamic organisations were interviewed. The book delves into topics such as the politicisation of the Dutch media, misunderstandings about ‘radicalisation’ and how they contribute to securitisation, and how Dutch Muslims have been confronted with the dilemma of dealing with radicalisation on their own, while also facing further vilification, securitisation, and Islamophobia, all of which continue to be issues. Additionally, the study examines the significance of ‘radical Salafi’ ideology and recruitment techniques as seen by Dutch Muslim communities.

Liselotte Welten is an independent researcher based in the Netherlands. 

Tahir Abbas is Professor of Radicalisation Studies at the Institute of Security and Global Affairs at Leiden University in The Hague, the Netherlands.