According to the Pew Research Center, Islam is the fastest-growing religion in Europe. The population increased from 30 million in 1990 to 40 million in 2010.
Not only is it growing fast, but Islam is also the second-largest religion in Europe. Around 200,000–320,000 people converted to Islam in Europe, especially in France, Belgium, the UK, and Germany, due to advancements in technology and education.
However, exact figures are hard to determine because official statistics don’t track religious affiliation. Estimates vary between 13 million, 15 million, and 20 million.
Despite challenges and conflicts, the Muslim population is increasing and gradually becoming a part of European politics. Here are some remarkable European Muslim politicians who have made significant contributions:
Syeda Warsi
- Position: Co-Chairwoman of the Conservative Party (2010–2012)
- Office: Member of the House of Lords, UK
She was the first female Muslim to attend the British Cabinet. In 2018, she publicly addressed Islamophobia in the Conservative Party under PM Theresa May. Known for creating a sensation with her traditional Indian outfit during her first Downing Street meeting.
Rachida Dati
- Position: French Politician, Member of the European Parliament
- Role: Spokesperson for Nicolas Sarkozy
France has the largest Muslim population in Europe, yet Muslim politicians remain few. Rachida Dati served as Justice Minister (2007–2009) and is now a Member of the European Parliament.
Ahmed Aboutaleb
- Position: Mayor of Rotterdam, Dutch politician of Moroccan origin
First immigrant mayor in the Netherlands, known for speaking openly about Muslim issues in the West. Voted as a reliable Dutch politician in a 2015 ANP poll.
Sadiq Khan
- Position: Mayor of London (2016–present)
- Party: Labour Party, Social Democrat
Sadiq Khan has been a prominent figure in London politics, supporting equal marriage rights and actively campaigning before the Brexit referendum. He received the Politician of the Year award at the British Muslim Awards in 2016 and is a practicing Muslim attending mosque regularly.
Cem Ozdemir
- Position: Co-chair of the Green Party, Member of the German Bundestag (since 2021)
Prominent face of Germany’s Green Party, co-chair from 2008–2018. Known as a “secular Muslim”, campaigned for cannabis legalization and opposed Turkey’s EU accession under Erdogan.
Joram van Klaveren
- Position: Dutch Politician, Member of the Party of Freedom
Initially a strong critic of Islam, he later converted to Islam despite previously writing an anti-Islam book.
ALSO READ
- Muslim Politicians in America Struggling Against Stereotypes
- Most Powerful Pakistani Politicians
- Most Beautiful Pakistani Female Politicians
Syed Kamall
- Position: British Politician, Member of European Parliament, Member of House of Lords
- Role: Professor of Politics
Served as parliamentary under secretary of State for innovation at the Department of Health and Social Care. Led the European Conservatives & Reformists group in the EU Parliament and promoted open trade and tech start-ups.
Metin Kazak
- Position: Bulgarian-Turkish Politician, Former MEP
Worked extensively for the Muslim community in Bulgaria, focusing on peaceful relations and community development.
Ismail Ertug
- Position: German-Turkish Politician, Member of European Parliament
- Party: Social Democratic Party
Active in legislative committees, co-chair of the EP Turkey Forum, contributing to European political processes.
Karima Delli
- Position: French Politician, European Parliamentarian (since 2009)
Worked in the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs, later moved to the Committee on Transport and Tourism. Became vice-chair of the Volkswagen emissions scandal inquiry in 2016.
Ending Thoughts
Muslim politicians in Europe face stereotypes and challenges, yet these leaders have earned trust and respect through honesty, bravery, and dedication. Their efforts continue to inspire and pave the way for more talented Muslim politicians in European politics.
Stay tuned for more interesting posts.
