Islamic Council of Europe
The Islamic Council of Europe is an organization established in 1973, designed to coordinate the work of Islamic centers and organizations across Europe, with its headquarters located in London. This council emerged following resolutions adopted at a conference of Muslim foreign ministers and received significant support from King Faisal of Saudi Arabia. Salem Azzam was a prominent figure, serving as a longtime director.
Etymology and Translations
- Etymology: The term “Islamic” is derived from the Arabic word “إسلام” (Islam), meaning “submission” or “surrender,” specifically to the will of God (Allah). “Council” traces back to the Latin “concilium,” meaning a meeting or assembly.
- Arabic Translation: المجلس الإسلامي الأوروبي (Al-Majlis Al-Islami Al-Europe)
- Turkish Translation: Avrupa İslam Konseyi
History and Formation
The Islamic Council of Europe was conceived during a period of heightened awareness among Muslim-majority countries about the need for a cohesive and coordinated approach in Europe to address the needs of growing Muslim communities. The council was constituted to play a central role in establishing a unified platform for Muslims in Europe, tackling collective issues, fostering Islamic education and awareness, and promoting cultural exchanges between different Islamic organizations.
Mission and Objectives
The core mission of the Islamic Council of Europe includes:
- Coordination: This involves harmonizing efforts among various Islamic organizations and centers in Europe to promote a cohesive Islamic lifestyle.
- Representation: Acting as a representative body for European Muslims in interactions with European governments and institutions.
- Education: Encouraging Islamic education and scholarship to ensure that the younger generations of Muslims remain aware of their cultural and religious heritage.
- Support: Providing support to new Muslim immigrants to help them integrate into European societies while preserving their Islamic identity.
Leadership and Contributions
The council’s leadership has been marked by notable figures such as Salem Azzam, whose tenure as director significantly shaped its direction and outreach. Under his leadership, the council made substantial contributions towards various projects including the translation of Islamic texts, organizing inter-faith dialogues, and facilitating the construction of new Islamic centers across Europe.
Books for Further Studies
To delve deeper into the subject, the following books are recommended:
- Muslim Europe or Euro-Islam: Politics, Culture, and Citizenship in the Age of Globalization by Aziz Al-Azmeh
- Islam in Europe: Diversity, Identity and Influence by Aziz Al-Azmeh and Effie Fokas
- European Islam: Challenges for Public Policy and Society by Samir Amghar
Key Takeaways
- The Islamic Council of Europe was established in 1973 with the objective of coordinating European Islamic entities.
- Supported by King Faisal of Saudi Arabia, it aims to unify, educate, and support the European Muslim community.
- Salem Azzam played a significant role as a director, driving many of the council’s initiatives.
Conclusion
The Islamic Council of Europe serves as a crucial institution for Muslims in Europe, striving to address their unique challenges and unite them under a common mission. This council remains a pillar in promoting understanding and cooperation amongst various Islamic organizations and nurturing a cohesive Muslim community in Europe.
