Islamophobia As a Social Phenomenon in the Western Societies
Islamophobia As a Social Phenomenon in the Western Societies

Summary/Abstract: This article examines the concept of ‘Islamophobia’ as a social phenomenon in the Western countries by an analytical qualitative research on number of academic studies, reports and statements. The aim of the study is to show that Islamophobia is not a new concept but it has already been identified at the beginning of the last century, and today it continues to develop and to fill with new content, and by doing so adopts another dimension and becomes a social phenomenon in Western societies, that demonizes Islam and is expressed in a negative attitude and stereotyping. It also attempts to bring about the historical development of the phenomenon with examples of Orientalist views in the past and today’s perception of Islam. The rise of Islamophobia in Western societies has been catalyzed, especially after 11/9. There has been an increase in attacks on Muslims, their religious and community centers, and in recent years in many countries a number of measures have been taken aimed at reducing them. In media public discourse and political speeches, Muslims are depicted as ‘extremists and pose a threat to non-Muslim societies’. These representations often adversely affect the daily interactions of Muslims in non-Muslim societies and they have a negative impact on their everyday life and questions the future of young people in those societies, where they feel uncomfortable. Nevertheless, debates in international platforms on the correctness of the definition of Islamophobia continue. Considering the importance of this, the following study attempts a comprehensive analysis of this issue with a brief historical review and contemporary perceptions of Islamophobia.

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