Category: Statements

The Forum of European Muslim Youth and Student Organisations (FEMYSO) acknowledges the recent ceasefire deal in Gaza as an essential step toward halting the violence and the killing of civilians. The destruction of hospitals, schools, universities and homes is nothing short of devastating, and it will take decades for the people of Gaza and the State of Palestine to recover, rebuild and heal- if the terms of the ceasefire are fully implemented and respected.

Student movements have historically played a crucial role in advocating for change and holding authorities accountable. The recent mobilisation of students and youth across Europe has demonstrated the power of collective action in raising awareness and pressuring policymakers to address injustices. FEMYSO stands in solidarity with these movements and encourages continued engagement to ensure that the voices of youth are heard and respected.

FEMYSO calls on the EU to safeguard the rights of students, youth and activists across Europe, ensuring their ability to mobilise and advocate for global justice without fear of repression.

While the ceasefire is a necessary and positive development, it does not mark the end of the struggle for justice and human rights in the region. FEMYSO remains deeply concerned about the ongoing challenges, including the shrinking of civic space, systemic injustices, and the persistent double standards in the application of international law justice. These issues undermine the principles of democracy and human rights that we, as a society, hold dear.

[END]

Notes: 

1. FEMYSO (est. 1996) is a network organisation for 32 Muslim youth and student organisations across 22 European countries, and is the leading voice for European Muslim youth, developing and empowering them, and working to build a more diverse, cohesive and vibrant Europe.  

2. For more information or requests please email media@femyso.org

As civil society organisations, we are deeply concerned by the recent surge in Islamophobic attacks and the growing influence of far-right ideologies in the United Kingdom. The horrific murder of three young girls in Southport¹ last week has been exacerbated by a wave of misinformation and targeted hatred against Muslims, asylum seekers and racialised people. Far-right groups exploited this tragedy, spreading falsehoods about the ethnicity and religion of the perpetrator, and using the incident to further their own agendas².   

We unequivocally condemn these Islamophobic attacks and call for immediate actions by the new government which is yet to address the violence for what it is: Islamophobia and anti-migrant hatred. The normalisation of far-right discourse must be vigorously challenged, and mainstream political parties must be held accountable for their failure to confront and reject Islamophobic narratives, which civil society has been opposing for decades.  

The dangerous activities of far-right extremists, often enabled by anti-migrant rhetoric perpetuated by media and politicians, have led to a climate where racist violence can flourish. Recent attacks on mosques and the ongoing violence across the UK highlight the damaging consequences of inflammatory and divisive rhetoric.  

The current wave of hatred is not new but has been brewing for years due to divisive narratives and political scapegoating as well at the institutionalisation of Islamophobia where anti-Muslim sentiments are becoming increasingly embedded within governmental and social structures. This worrying trend is not limited to the UK but it is evident across several European countries³ where Muslims and migrants are also scapegoated, as the recent European elections have illustrated. Without urgent action, similar outbreaks could occur across Europe. Muslim communities deserve safety and respect, not fear and violence. 

We extend its deepest condolences to the families, friends, and communities affected by these heinous acts. The Muslim community in in the UK is living in fear for their safety and the sanctity of the places of worship. The exploitation of the grief of the families of the victims is absolutely deplorable. 

As we are approaching the 21^st of September, the European Day Against Islamophobia, addressing Islamophobia firmly and explicitly is critical and imperative. The violent riots illustrate how easily Muslims and racialised individuals can become scapegoats. We call on the UK government to take firm actions against Islamophobic hate as the time for inaction has passed; it is now time for decisive, unequivocal measures to safeguard Muslims and champion equality and justice.  

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Notes  

1. FEMYSO (est. 1996) is a network organisation for 32 Muslim youth and student organisations across 22 European countries, and is the leading voice for European Muslim youth, developing and empowering them, and working to build a more diverse, cohesive and vibrant Europe.  

2. For more information or requests please email media@femyso.org  

References

1. https://edition.cnn.com/2024/08/01/uk/southport-stabbings-suspect-charged-murder-intl-hnk/index.html
2. https://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory/online-misinformation-fueling-tensions-southport-stabbing-attack-killed-112463073

A few weeks ago, the United Nations designated the 11^th of July as the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica¹, a dark stain on recent European history where Serbian Nationalist Militia killed more than 8,372 Muslim men and boys.  

As we observe this day, FEMYSO stands in solemn remembrance of the horrific events that transpired 29 years ago on European soil. On this day, we acknowledge the memory of the thousands of innocent lives lost and acknowledge the deep scars on the survivors of the Bosnian Muslim community.  

The Srebrenica genocide did not occur in a vacuum. It was the culmination of years of dehumanisation and systematic killing of Muslim Bosniaks, nearly 100,000 of whom perished in the years leading up to the genocide.  This Day serves as a critical reminder of the atrocities committed and the need for ongoing vigilance against Islamophobia in all its forms.  

The current European context is alarming, as we witness the rise of the far-right nurtured by racist and Islamophobic sentiments and a disturbing parallel with the ongoing genocides in Palestine, Sudan, and the Congo. These events emphasise the urgency of addressing the root causes of such violence and preventing history from repeating itself. The dehumanisation of any group is a dangerous precursor to mass violence, and it is our collective responsibility to combat it at every turn.  

In our commitment to this cause, FEMYSO recently held its annual consultation meeting in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and visited Srebrenica along with the member organisations in order to deepen our understanding and solidarity. Through these actions, we aim to raise awareness and educate future generations about the consequences of unchecked Islamophobia.  

We call on all individuals and institutions to join #WeRemember95 in a collective effort to decolonise history and ensure that the teaching of genocide is accurate and comprehensive.  

Remembering the Srebrenica genocide is not just about honouring those who were brutally killed; it is about recognising the signs of dehumanisation and taking decisive action to prevent such atrocities from occurring again. 

References

¹ UN establishes International Day of reflection for Srebrenica genocide | UN News 

As the international community’s failure grows in front of the unfolding of the genocide in Gaza, courageous students standing in solidarity across Europe are met with unjust repercussions, police brutality and punitive measures¹. 

As Israel’s military campaign killed over 35 000 Palestinians and left a trail of demolished infrastructures, including the destruction of all universities in Gaza, the higher education system has completely collapsed. Meanwhile, students worldwide are fearlessly uniting to demand justice, urging academic institutions to take a stand against this ongoing genocide. Their demands are unequivocal: 

• Immediate and permanent ceasefire to end the bloodshed in Gaza and occupied territories. 
• Universities to openly disclose any ties with entities profiting from the genocide, ensuring accountability and ethical responsibility.  
• Divestment from complicit entities and businesses supporting the oppression of Palestinians, sending a clear message that complicity will not be tolerated.  
• Welcome Palestinian refugee students impacted by the genocide, offering support and resources to facilitate their integration into the education systems in Europe.  

Yet, those peacefully exercising their rights under Article 12 of the EU Charter on Human Rights² are met with violent repression, facing arrests and assaults with bulldozers, batons and water cannons.   
In Sorbonne Université³, 88 students were arrested and detained by the police, while in Amsterdam, over 100 students and faculty members were subjected to brutal beatings and arrests⁴. Elsewhere, Gaza solidarity encampments have sprung up in renowned universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, Science Po Paris, Humboldt University in Germany, University of Bologna, showcasing solidarity for the Palestinian people and students.   
 
Throughout history, student movements have served as powerful catalysts for transformative societal change. From the civil rights era to anti-apartheid struggles, students have been at the forefront of movements fighting for justice and equality. In 2024, the current protests of solidarity towards Palestinians represent not just a momentary uprising, but a continuation of the enduring aspirations for justice that spans generations. 

FEMYSO calls on the academic institutions and universities to honour and safeguard fundamental rights of students to engage in peaceful protest. It is a responsibility of these institutions to protect civil liberties and unequivocally reject any use of violence against the very individuals they are tasked with educating, as these students represent the future of our societies. 

We commend the courage, the integrity and resilience of students who stand against injustice, as well as those who expressed dissent against what will undoubtedly become another tragic dark stain on modern history.  

Moreover, we urge European governments and international institutions to take immediate action to halt Israeli genocide in Gaza, uphold principles of international law, leaving no room for ambiguity in the pursuit of justice and accountability. 

[END]  

Notes:   

1. FEMYSO (est. 1996) is a network organisation for 32 Muslim youth and student organisations across 22 European countries, and is the leading voice for European Muslim youth, developing and empowering them, and working to build a more diverse, cohesive and vibrant Europe.    

2. For more information or requests please email media@femyso.org 

References

¹ Clashes and arrests as pro-Palestinian protests spread across European campuses | Israel-Gaza war | The Guardian 

² Article 12 – Freedom of assembly and of association | European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (europa.eu) 

³ https://www.lemonde.fr/societe/article/2024/05/08/mobilisation-propalestinienne-88-etudiants-en-garde-a-vue-apres-avoir-occupe-un-amphitheatre-a-la-sorbonne_6232233_3224.html 

⁴ Amsterdam pro-Palestinian student protest broken up by police | Reuters 

Recent threats targeting three Mosques in Oslo have plunged European Muslims into a state of fear for their safety and security. This foiled terror plot, echo the heinous Christchurch terrorist attack of 2019, where 51 worshippers were murdered. 

Rooted in the abhorrent far-right Great Replacement conspiracy theory and far-right extremism, these threats expose the surge in Islamophobia sweeping across Europe, casting a dark shadow over the fundamental rights and safety of Muslim citizens. Norway itself bore witness to such terror in 2011, when Anders Breivik perpetrated a terrorist attack, claiming the lives of 77 individuals. Breivik’s attack was fuelled by rampant Islamophobia, as outlined in his manifesto where he advocated for the mass expulsion of Muslims from Europe.  

During the sacred month of Ramadan, a time for spiritual reflection and devotion, Muslims should be able to practice their faith without fear or intimidation. Yet the spectre of violence roams largely, threatening the safety of our communities. Less than a month ago, we commemorated the fifth anniversary of the Christchurch terror attack in New Zealand, only to find ourselves confronted with the same vile hate embodied in these dangerous threats. 

We call upon the Norwegian authorities to treat these events with utmost seriousness and to take decisive action to prevent potential Islamophobic attacks. The Norwegian Police Security Service (PST)’s decision to arm the police is a minimum measure, however, more must be done to proportionately address the threat posed by poisonous ideologies sowing division and hatred. 

Yet, it is deeply troubling that the PST¹ has not classified these threats as terrorism, raising serious concerns about the adequacy of responses to the rising tide of Islamophobia and far-right extremism. 

FEMYSO stands in solidarity with our member organisation Norges Unge Muslimer (NUM) and expresses deep concern for the safety of Norwegian Muslims. FEMYSO President Hania Chalal stated that “These threats constitute only a symptom of a major disease eroding the democratic fabric of Europe: Islamophobia. At its worst, Muslims are left vulnerable and in fear for their lives, which is intolerable in our European societies.” 

Moreover, the inadequate data on hate crimes against Muslims in Europe highlights the pressing need for more firm policy action. With many countries lacking a specific category for such crimes and others failing to record them all together², the reported numbers, such as Germany’s 610 cases, Sweden’s 500 cases³, and the Netherlands’ 161, likely represent only a fraction of the actual crimes.  

Failure to act decisively and urgently will pose an even greater risk to our collective security. The scourge of Islamophobia extends beyond Norway’s borders, plaguing nations across Europe.  

We demand concrete measures to be taken to protect places of worship and urge European leaders to confront Islamophobia head-on and ensure the safety of their respective Muslim communities. 

 
[END] 

Notes :  

1. FEMYSO (est. 1996) is a network organisation for 32 Muslim youth and student organisations across 22 European countries, and is the leading voice for European Muslim youth, developing and empowering them, and working to build a more diverse, cohesive and vibrant Europe.   

2. For more information or requests please email media@femyso.org 

References:

1. Oslo-politiet bevæpner seg etter trusler på nettsted (vg.no)
2. PACE-submission-Islamophobia-1-June-2022.pdf (amnesty.eu) 
3. Anti-Muslim hate crime | HCRW (osce.org)

In the name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful
All praise and thanks belong to God, the Lord of the Worlds,
May peace and prayers be upon Prophet Muhammad

On behalf of the communities we serve in our respective countries around the world, the undersigned Muslim organizations today commemorate the UN’s Second International Day to Combat Islamophobia. We do so by calling the attention of those committed to advancing justice for all people to injustices being perpetrated by the governments of Israel, India, China, and France.

Israel’s decades of occupation and apartheid have arrived at a predictable conclusion: genocide in Gaza. Some states, such as South Africa, have asserted international humanitarian values. Other states, such as the United States and the United Kingdom, have provided military aid and political comfort to Israel while ignoring the daily stream of videos documenting Gaza’s reduction to rubble and Palestinian civilians crying for food, medicine, or over their dead children.

This latest cycle of Middle East violence has impacted our constituencies as a spike in hate against Muslims in Western countries who speak up for Palestinian human rights accompanies Israel’s onslaught.

India’s far-right, anti-Muslim government continues its repression of religious and racial minorities in that nation, particularly Muslims. Early this year, Prime Minister Modi continued to weaponize faith in his nation when he inaugurated a temple on the site of the former Babri Mosque, which was destroyed in 1992 by Hindutva nationalist mobs.

The Chinese government advanced efforts to “Sinicize” Islam in that nation by erasing mosques and Muslim cemeteries and implementing policies of internment and forced labor for ethnic and religious minorities in the Muslim-majority Xinjiang province.

France continued efforts to erase visible clothing associated with an individual’s Islamic identity from public spaces. Most recently, the government banned Muslim students from wearing the abaya, a long, flowing robe-like garment worn by many Muslim women. Education Minister Gabriel Attal said in an interview with TV channel TF1, “When you walk into a classroom, you shouldn’t be able to identify the pupils’ religion just by looking at them.” Other French Ministers even admitted that though the abaya is not a religious garment, students will be targeted based on their assumed religion thereby further legalizing religious discrimination against French Muslims.

Last year, Muslim organizations came together to make a joint call to action. In 2024 and in light of the above, we make the following calls to action:

1. Nations should recognize the UN International Day to Combat Islamophobia and in particular strongly call on the above nations to abandon anti-Muslim activities.
2. Muslim-majority nations should take the opportunity of today’s commemoration to challenge Islamophobia generally and the above nations specifically.

The groups joining together on this statement commit to continuing to work in their respective nations and regions to promote an international norm in which respect for human rights and diversity of religions and beliefs is valued through political action.

Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) (Australia)
Collective for Countering Islamophobia in Europe (CCIE) (Europe)
Comité Justice & Libertés Pour Tous (France)
Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) (USA)
Forum of European Muslim Youth and Student Organisations (FEMYSO) (Europe)
March 15th Forum, Combating Islamophobia (USA)
MPower Change (USA)
Muslim Rights Watch Netherlands (Netherlands)
Islamophobia Studies Center (USA)
Islamophobia Research and Documentation Project (USA)
International Islamophobia Studies and Research Association (multiple nations)
Islamophobia Studies Journal (multiple nations)
Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) (UK)
US Council of Muslim Organizations (USCMO) (USA)

As we enter the fourth month of the relentless war in Gaza and the escalation of violence in the West Bank, it has become increasingly evident that the situation is not only a dire humanitarian crisis but also a serious violation of human rights that contravene the very tenets of international law, international humanitarian law and international criminal law. Reports from United Nations experts underline these violations, emphasising the urgent need for accountability for crimes that may amount to war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity¹.  

Among the most heinous aspects of this onslaught has been the deliberate and systematic targeting of journalists which constitutes a direct assault on the principles of freedom of speech and the public’s right to information. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) reports that at least 81 journalists have been killed in the Gaza Strip in the last three months and calls on the UN Security Council to reinforce Resolution 2222, ensuring better protection for journalists in conflict zones².  

A staggering number of Palestinians, which exceeds 23,000, have been killed³ in Gaza, while 26 out of the territory’s 35 hospitals are no longer operating. The plight of women and children is particularly grave. There have been 12,882 women and children killed, with an additional harrowing statistic: on average every day 10 children day lose one or both legs⁴ while 50,000 pregnant women⁵ endure extreme hardships, facing what UNFPA has called a “double nightmare”⁶.  

The UNRWA has reported, as of December 12, that nearly 85% of Gaza’s population, approximately 1.9 million people, are internally displaced, with many experiencing displacement multiple times⁷.  
The disproportionate bombardments and the inhumane blockade imposed on Gaza led to severe deprivation for the 2.3 million residents, escalating the crisis to critical levels of disease, with an ever-increasing risk of famine.  
Equally alarming is the destruction of educational structures and holy sites⁸ with a total of 339 educational facilities having been either completely destroyed or severely damaged, and 167 religious sites, including mosques and churches, being demolished.  

Furthermore, the targeting of various UN agencies in the region, notably UNRWA, has been severe and alarming. As of January the 1^st, a tragic total of 142 UNRWA staff members have been killed⁹. These attacks further impede the advancement of humanitarian work in the region, underlining the critical challenges faced in these efforts.  
 
The widespread destruction of homes, hospitals, educational facilities and holy sites as well as the undermining of humanitarian aid is a harrowing testament to the brutality and severity of this onslaught. It speaks volumes on the humanitarian catastrophe we are witnessing and the need for an immediate cessation of violence alongside accountability. 

Therefore, FEMYSO joins the global call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire to halt the human suffering of the Palestinian people. The continuous bloodshed and destruction must come to an end.  

The EU must reassess and modify its current foreign policy, especially concerning arms trade agreements that may contribute to further escalation of violence in the region. There is a strong need for a responsible approach that advocates for a ceasefire, for peace, sovereignty and self-determination of the Palestinian people. We commend the courageous politicians who have already spoken out against these atrocities and urge Member States to stand on the right side of history by supporting South Africa’s submission of preliminary measures to the International Court of Justice¹⁰. 

FEMYSO continues to work in collaboration with its Member Organisations and partners for a diverse, cohesive and vibrant Europe, where everyone lives based on the principles of the rule of law, respect and human dignity – values which FEMYSO wishes to see exercised worldwide. 

[ENDS] 

Notes : 

1. FEMYSO (est. 1996) is a network organisation for 32 Muslim youth and student organisations across 22 European countries, and is the leading voice for European Muslim youth, developing and empowering them, and working to build a more diverse, cohesive and vibrant Europe.  

2. For more information or requests please email media@femyso.org 

References:

1. Gaza: UN experts call on international community to prevent genocide against the Palestinian people | OHCHR. 
2. RSF calls for emergency UN Security Council meeting on Israeli violations of Resolution 2222 on protecting journalists | RSF
3. Gaza: One in 100 people has been killed since October 7 | CNN
4. GAZA: More than 10 children a day lose a limb in three months of brutal conflict | Save the Children International.
5. Facts and figures: Women and girls during the war in Gaza | UN Women – Headquarters.
6. ‘I’m scared for my unborn child’: Gaza’s pregnant women prepare to give birth in a war zone | CNN.
7. Most of Gaza’s Population Remains Displaced and in Harm’s Way | Human Rights Watch (hrw.org).
8. Widespread destruction in Gaza puts concept of ‘domicide’ in focus | Israel-Gaza war | The Guardian.
9. UNRWA Situation Report #59 on the situation in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem | UNRWA.
10.  Application instituting proceedings and Request for the indication of provisional measures (icj-cij.org)

 

The Forum of European Muslim Youth and Student Organisations (FEMYSO) is deeply concerned about the alarming rise in Islamophobia in the wake of the escalating conflict in Palestine and Israel. 

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the victims and their families. Recent events have once again shed light on the urgent need for international action to address the root causes of this prejudice and to promote peace, justice, and respect for all.

Islamophobia perpetuates a cycle of discrimination and hatred against Muslim communities, making it essential to understand that this prejudice does not reflect the values of the majority but is perpetuated by a minority who exploit conflict to advance their hateful ideologies. 

FEMYSO calls upon governments and law enforcement agencies in Europe to address the issue of discriminatory policing. No one should be subjected to biased profiling, harassment, or unequal treatment based on their religion, ethnicity, or origin. It is the duty of governments to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and human rights for all their citizens, irrespective of their background.

It is only through dialogue, cooperation, and respect for international law and an end to the occupation that we can hope to bring an end to this long-standing crisis, and with it, the associated Islamophobia and discriminatory policing targeting Muslim populations in Europe protesting against injustice. 

These protests are inspired by the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. European governments and institutions should prioritise diplomatic efforts to prevent further loss of life and casualties, instead of providing “carte blanche” to the security apparatus to punish those emotionally affected by the situation. 

FEMYSO believes that countering Islamophobia requires collaborative efforts. Our organisation commits to working hand in hand with European governments, educational institutions, and civil society organisations to challenge stereotypes, promote dialogue, and foster a sense of unity and belonging among all citizens, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.

We call on the European media to responsibly report on conflicts, ensuring that coverage is balanced, unbiased, and devoid of any negative stereotypes that can perpetuate Islamophobia. Likewise, it is imperative for governments to protect the rights of all their citizens, regardless of their religion or ethnicity, and to hold those who engage in hate crimes accountable for their actions.

We reiterate our commitment to promoting peace, justice, and intercultural understanding. It is only through collective efforts and the rejection of hatred and prejudice that we can hope for a future where all people, regardless of their faith, can live in harmony and mutual respect. 

We call on European leaders to work together in addressing this pressing issue and creating a more inclusive and peaceful world for all.

[ENDS]

Notes 

1. FEMYSO (est. 1996) is a network organisation for 32 Muslim youth and student organisations across 22 European countries, and is the leading voice for European Muslim youth, developing and empowering them, and working to build a more diverse, cohesive and vibrant Europe. 

2. For more information or requests please email media@femyso.org 

Following the truly shocking revelations outlined in a yearlong joint investigation by European Investigative Collaborations with articles published today in NRC, Mediapart and De Spiegel, our organisation would like to call for accountability and immediate action.

As one of the oldest European youth organisations, our credible track record backed by years of partnership and collaboration was completely disregarded by the very institutions which should have protected us. Volunteer-led organisations, live and die by their reputation, this multi-year 5-million-euro campaign aims to destroy our organisation and drive the young people we represent out of public life.

As outlined in the article, this smear campaign led to increased censorship towards our organisation by European institutions notably the European Commission and Council of Europe, including the removal of our representatives from the agendas of events they were due to address and removal from youth advisory bodies with no ability for dialogue provided.

Our organisation was left with very few allies as we became a toxic brand, however, leaders like Commissioner Helena Dalli and director of the EU Fundamental Rights Agency, Michael O’Flaherty, and organisations like the European Youth Forum must be applauded as they were willing to show solidarity and be on the right side of history.

It is deeply concerning when any foreign entity tries to influence our leaders and politics. What separates Europe from the rest of the world is our thriving civil society, this campaign aimed to destroy this, and this is why we call on the European Ombudsman to investigate the impacts of this campaign on the engagement of EU institutions with our organisation.

We categorically refute and condemn any attempts to link our organisation to any political or ideological party, group or movement. We have proven throughout the years that our sole objective is to work for a diverse, cohesive and vibrant Europe.

[ENDS] 

 

 

Notes 

1. Find here a full list of the articles: https://eic.network/projects/abu-dhabi-secrets.html
2. An exclusive interview of FEMYSO’s president (in Dutch): https://www.nrc.nl/nieuws/2023/07/07/dit-schimmige-bedrijf-vernietigde-met-succes-de-reputaties-van-europese-moslims-a4169074
3. FEMYSO (est. 1996) is a network organisation for 31 Muslim youth and student organisations across 21 European countries, and is the leading voice for European Muslim youth, developing and empowering them, and working to build a more diverse, cohesive and vibrant Europe. 
   
   
4. For more information or requests please email media@femyso.org