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In the Netherlands, where more than 850,000 Muslims live, the reality of this community is often overshadowed by misconceptions and negative images. A reality that, through the window of ignorance and fear, is not just or truthful. The recent findings of the European Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA) are a painful example of this: the Netherlands scores the highest in Europe, after Greece, in terms of discrimination against Muslims.
The figures are alarming: 42% of Dutch Muslims experience discrimination because of their ethnic background, and 30% because of their religion. In my area, 100% of people experience discrimination because of their religion and/or background. There is a population group that is more discriminated against than Muslims and that is the Jewish Dutch, with 33%.
Discrimination against Muslims extends from the labor and housing markets to the police, with Dutch Muslims being ethnically profiled twice as often as Muslims in other European countries. This has a profound impact on the involvement and solidarity of Muslims in our society.
In addition, it recently came to light that a Swiss intelligence agency, Alp Services, was involved in a smear campaign against prominent Muslims across Europe, including Dutch politicians. This campaign, funded by external stakeholders, used fake online profiles and misleading information to spread false accusations. The seriousness of these practices has led to criminal investigations in Switzerland and France. It highlights the deep-seated hatred that Muslims face.
Despite these challenges, amidst all the poison, racism, anti-Semitism and name-calling, the Muslim community remains a source of positivity, resilience and contributions to society. It is high time that we learn from the past and recognize this community not just as ‘different’ or ‘separate’, but as an integral part of Dutch society. Their contribution to the social fabric of our nation is undeniable and deserves appreciation, not marginalization.
As a society, we should focus on the bridges we can build, not the walls that divide us. Let us learn from the past and see the Muslim community for what they really are: an essential part of our collective, whose story deserves to be heard and celebrated. In the shadows of misunderstanding and prejudice, they shine a light of hope and humanity. Let us not extinguish that light, but let it shine, bright and clear, for all to see.
The challenges are great, but a start can be made. Let us not only commemorate, but also think about how we can learn from our past.
