Belonging, Citizenship and Muslim Identity

This book explores belonging among Muslims in Britain and France, asking whether British and French Muslims are citizens first or Muslims first. Based on in-depth interviews with Muslims in both jurisdictions, it considers three options open to Muslims - assimilation, integration, or conflict - and considers the differences in approach that tend to prevail among Muslims in Britain and France, with British Muslims tending to favour a cohabitationist strategy, while many French Muslims adopt a more conflictual approach. With attention to issues of Islamophobia, the author examines the crises multiculturalism and secularism are facing, and argues for a more inclusive rhetoric on questions of Islam and citizenship, to counter the essentialist, 'othering' approach that characterises media coverage and public discourse. A call for a new paradigm of articulation between Muslim identity and Western citizenship, Belonging, Citizenship and Muslim Identity will be of interest to scholars of sociology, politics, geography and anthropology with interests in inclusion and diasporic communities.

Stéphane Hlaimi, PhD, is a lecturer in economics at the University of Exeter Business School. With a research focus on applied economics, his work spans topics such as labour markets, economic inequality, and public policy. Dr. Hlaimi holds a PhD in economics and another PhD in ethno-politics, and he is committed to integrating empirical research with real-world applications, providing valuable insights for both students and policymakers. At Exeter, he teaches various courses in economics and quantitative methods, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

1. European Muslims in a Changing Europe 2. Identity and Citizenship 3. Research Methods and Fieldwork 4. Muslims and Belonging in the United Kingdom 5. Islam, Muslims and Belonging in France 6. Multiculturalism and Secularism: A Comparison 7. Conclusion