Press Release | FEMYSO Calls for Justice and Accountability Following the Death of Abderrahim Fakir in Italy

For Immediate Release  

Brussels, 21 July 2026

The Forum of European Muslim Youth and Student Organisations (FEMYSO) expresses its profound concern and condemns the death of Abderrahim Fakir during a police intervention in Bologna, Italy.

Abderrahim died after being restrained by several police officers. Video footage of the incident appears to show him being held face down on the ground while repeatedly crying out that he could not breathe before losing consciousness. The incident has sparked widespread public concern, with protests taking place in Bologna. Italian authorities have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, with prosecutors examining available evidence, including police body-camera footage.

FEMYSO stresses that the ongoing investigation must uncover the full circumstances surrounding Abderrahim’s death, while ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the process.

This case also comes amid wider concerns raised by Muslim and other racialised communities across Europe regarding racial profiling, discriminatory policing, and disproportionate use of force. Addressing Islamophobia requires confronting both individual acts of hatred and structural discrimination wherever it occurs, including within public institutions.

FEMYSO calls on the Italian authorities to: 

  1. Ensure that the ongoing investigation examines all relevant evidence and provides clarity on the circumstances surrounding Abderrahim’s death. 
  2. Guarantee that Abderrahim’s family has access to truth, justice, and accountability throughout the process. 
  3. Take meaningful steps to address discriminatory policing and excessive use of force. 

    FEMYSO stands in solidarity with Abderrahim’s family and all those seeking justice and accountability. His death is a tragic reminder of the urgent need to ensure equal protection, dignity, and justice for all. Accountability is essential not only for his family, but also for maintaining trust between communities and public institutions.

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    Notes 

    1. FEMYSO (est. 1996) is a network organisation of 32 Muslim youth and student organisations across 22 European countries, working to empower European Muslim youth and contribute to a more inclusive, cohesive, and just Europe. 
    2. For more information or media requests, please contact: media@femyso.org