Integrating Muslims into Western Societies: Transatlantic Policies and Perspectives

Boylan, Brandon M. (2009) Integrating Muslims into Western Societies: Transatlantic Policies and Perspectives. In: UNSPECIFIED.

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Abstract

This paper examines the extent to which Muslims are integrated in Western societies by comparing their experiences in the United States and Europe. It utilizes and assesses country-level data, such as public opinion polls, figures on discrimination, and data on participation in society, in order to draw comparisons between these two regions. First, integration debates and approaches are reviewed in order to provide a framework for comparison. Second, public opinion surveys are interpreted to see how factors affecting the Muslim community differ between the United States and Europe. Third, the United States and United Kingdom - countries that both espouse multiculturalism - are used as case studies to see how Muslim integration compares over time and in relation to the general public. Findings suggest that the inclusion of Muslims in U.S. society has been more successful on the whole, while European countries continue to struggle with eliminating large differences between the Muslim community and the general public. Moreover, Muslims in the United States seem to face less discrimination than other minorities, and their experience appears to be improving over time. In contrast, discrimination against Muslims in the United Kingdom is more severe than other religious groups, and seems to be remaining constant.

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