Displaying Research Topic: Politics
12 May 2026 | Individuals
Islamophobia and the Political Rise of Zohran Mamdani
This report examines the surge of Islamophobia directed at Zohran Mamdani’s historic run for Mayor of New York City. Drawing on news reports, public statements and actions by prominent groups and politicians, media framing, and social media discourse, the report investigates and analyzes the anti-Muslim bigotry during this time period. read the complete article
17 Mar 2026 | Policy/Law
Monitoring Islamophobia in Europe for 10 years: Some observations
We take March 15, the UN International Day to Combat Islamophobia, as an opportunity to reflect upon 10 years of publishing the yearly European Islamophobia Report, where more than 30 authors have published over 25 country reports covering the state and development of Islamophobia since 2015. While far from comprehensive, this reflection provides insights in the making of the report, the achievements, worsening trends, as well as a short outlook on the future. read the complete article
19 Feb 2026 | Politics
Islamophobia takes center stage in the Lone Star State
In November 2025, Governor Greg Abbot called for an official investigation into so-called “Sharia courts”. No such courts exist, but factual information has never been the top priority in American politics. There are however, as Lawyer Faisal Kutty points out, “voluntary Muslim mediation panels operating under the same framework used by Jewish beth din courts and Christian arbitration services.” read the complete article
04 Dec 2025 | Policy/Law
Germany’s Elevated ‘Task Force on Islamism Prevention.’ A Further Step Towards Criminalizing Muslim Agency
The German Federal Government’s recent decision to make its Task Force on Islamism Prevention within the Federal Ministry of the Interior a permanent committee is another step to deepen the criminalization of Muslim civic activity. read the complete article
09 Sep 2025 | Policy/Law
Pride or Prejudice? The English Flag and the Racialization of Belonging
In recent weeks, there has been a visible resurgence of national symbols across the United Kingdom, particularly the Union Jack and the English flag bearing Saint George's Cross. These flags have been hoisted from lampposts, draped over bridges, and even painted onto roundabouts. While some describe this grassroots movement as an expression of national pride, the displaying of these flags has also been closely associated with anti-migrant and anti-Muslim hostility. read the complete article
14 Jul 2025 | Individuals
When a Win Sparks Hate: Islamophobia After Mamdani’s Victory
Zohran Mamdani has made history as the first Muslim to become the Democratic candidate for New York City Mayor. The democratic socialist’s campaign centered on a bold progressive vision aimed at making New York City more affordable, including proposals to provide free bus service and childcare, implement a rent freeze, and increase taxes on wealthy corporations. Mamdani succeeded in mobilizing broad grassroots support, ultimately defeating former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo—long considered a political heavyweight. read the complete article
25 Apr 2025 | Politics
Bridging Worlds: Reflections on Teaching, Dialogue, and the University’s Role
As a historian of the Middle East and a historian of religions, my scholarship and teaching for over two decades have focused on the history of interfaith and interreligious relations, pluralism, and identity. Over this… read the complete article
27 Mar 2025 | Policy/Law
Silencing Dissent: The Islamophobia Industry’s Assault on Academic Freedom
In 2025, The Bridge Initiative marks ten years since its launch. Founded by world-renowned Islamic studies scholar Dr. John L. Esposito, the project, housed under the Al-Waleed Center for Muslim Christian Understanding (ACMCU) at Georgetown University, was created in response to the urgent need for a reliable source on Islamophobia. As the issue grew in the United States, Bridge was established with a clear mission: to study, analyze, and provide the public with resources on Islamophobia—how it manifests and the often-devastating consequences it brings to individuals and society. read the complete article
15 Mar 2025 | Politics
Statement of International Muslim Organizations and Human Rights Civil Society Organizations on the 2025 United Nation’s International Day to Combat Islamophobia
Statement of International Muslim Organizations and Human Rights Civil Society Organizations on the 2025 United Nation’s International Day to Combat Islamophobia In the name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful All praise and… read the complete article
18 Feb 2025 | Military
Detained, Dehumanized, Forgotten: The Endless Cycle of Guantánamo
Twenty-three years have passed, yet the early weeks of Donald Trump’s second administration felt like a return to 2002. On January 29, 2025, the former reality star-turned-president signed an executive order to expand detention facilities… read the complete article