Muslim Parliament
Definition
The Muslim Parliament is an Islamic organization founded in 1991 in London by Dr. Kalim Siddiqui. It was established to represent and advocate for the interests of the Muslim community in the United Kingdom.
Etymology
- Arabic: برلمان المسلمين (Barlaman al-Muslimeen)
- Turkish: Müslüman Parlamentosu
Historical Background
The idea for the Muslim Parliament originated from The Muslim Manifesto, a proposal published in July 1989 by Dr. Kalim Siddiqui. This document laid the groundwork for the formation of an organized body to address issues significant to British Muslims, advocating for their socio-political rights and integration while preserving Islamic values.
The Muslim Parliament was officially inaugurated in 1991 and is essentially composed of appointed members, inclusive of a significant proportion of women and youth. The Parliament operates through various specialized committees focusing on diverse areas of concern such as education, community welfare, and interfaith relations.
Structure and Operation
- Operates primarily through specialist committees.
- Membership includes a notable representation of women and young people.
- Programs are designed to respond to the needs and interests of the Muslim community in the UK.
- Acts as a platform to voice Muslim concerns and as a mediator between Muslims and wider British society.
Impact and Influence
The initiatives and proposals of the Muslim Parliament have garnered considerable public attention and in some instances have served as models for similar Islamic groups and organizations. Its active period notably contributed to the political and social mobilization of Muslims in the UK.
Status Post-1996
Following the death of its founder, Dr. Kalim Siddiqui, in 1996, the Muslim Parliament has experienced a period of dormancy and significantly less visibility in public and Muslim community affairs. Its activities have dwindled and it has not maintained the same level of influence as during Siddiqui’s lifetime.
Suggested Books for Further Reading
- The Muslim Manifesto: A Strategy for Survival by Kalim Siddiqui
- Islamic Movements in Britain by Tahir Abbas
- The Infidel Within: Muslims in Britain since 1800 by Humayun Ansari
- Islam in Britain by Runnymede Trust
Takeaways
- The Muslim Parliament was a pioneering effort to formalize Muslim representation in the UK.
- It sought to facilitate socio-political advocacy for British Muslims while promoting integration and preserving Islamic principles.
- Although less active post-1996, its initial efforts laid foundational concepts for subsequent Muslim organizations.
Conclusion
The Muslim Parliament symbolizes an important chapter in the history of British Muslims. Its establishment and contributions represent early attempts to organize collectively in order to address specific needs and challenges faced by the Muslim community within a Western context.
By understanding the origins, operations, and challenges faced by the Muslim Parliament, one gains insight into the broader narrative of the Muslim diaspora and their pursuit of social and political engagement in a multicultural setting.
