Islamic Militant Activism in Belgium, The Netherlands and Germany: Islands in a [Hardcover]

Based on ethnographic research in Belgium, The Netherlands, and Germany, this book presents a novel approach to studying Muslim militant activism. While much existing research focuses on the process of radicalization, these authors introduce a different set of questions that investigate specific modes of activism, and their engagement with dominant discourses and practices in media and state policies. Drawing on social movement theory and Foucaults work on counter-conduct, this research explores how da?wa networks came about, and how activists developed themselves in interaction with state and media practices. This perspective highlights a form of activism and resistance in which activists turn against policies and debates centring on Muslims and Islam, while attempting to create and protect an alternative space for themselves in which they can experience Islam according to their own perception of it.

The study will contribute to debates about resistance, social movements and militant activism among Muslims in Europe.

1. Introduction: Conducting Research on Militant Activist Da'wa in Belgium, The Netherlands, and Germany. - 2. Iconic Resistance: Germany.- 3. Making the Unbelievers Angry  Sharia4Belgium.- 4. The War Has Begun  The Dutch Networks. - 5. The Production of 'Radicals': 'Steadfast Warriors' in The Netherlands. - 6. A Comparative Discussion: The Counter-Conducts of Militant Muslim Activists. 

Martijn de Koning is Postdoctoral Researcher and Lecturer at Radboud University Nijmegen and the University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Carmen Becker is Postdoctoral l£v