Introduction to the Charter

Despite their diversity, Muslims of Europe share common values and principles. In order to portray this to European society they need to clearly express their religious convictions and the nature of their presence in Europe.

This charter aims to define a number of principles in accordance with the common understanding of Islam within the European context and to set thenceforth the foundations of greater positive interaction with society.

The rationale for such a charter includes

·        The contribution of Islam to modern Europe as well as the rooted Islamic presence as represented by Muslims in many of the Eastern Europe states. Likewise, the establishment of Muslim communities in several Western European countries has witnessed a shift from a transitory presence of foreign migrants to a more permanent presence.

·        The Muslim presence in Europe requires a framework of citizenship based on justice, equality of rights, with respect for difference, and the recognition of Muslims as a religious community.

·        The importance of Islam in the world and its spiritual, human and civilisational potential requires a rapprochement with the West, and Europe in particular, in order to ensure justice and peace in the world.

·        In line with the expansion and development of the European Union, there is a need for greater co-operation among Muslims of Europe.

·        The need to uphold the values of mutual understanding, working for peace and the welfare of society, moderation and inter-cultural dialogue, removed from all inclinations of extremism and exclusion.

These considerations have led European Muslim organisations to formulate this charter in the hope of enhancing the role of Muslims in benefiting European society and to help it build bridges with the rest of the Muslim world.

Articles of the Charter

Section One: On the Understanding of Islam

1.   Our understanding of Islam is based on immutable principles that are derived from the authentic sources of Islam: the Qur'an and the Prophetic traditions (Sunnah), within the framework of consensus with consideration for the time factor as well as the specifics of the European reality.

2.   The true spirit of Islam is based on moderation as extended from the Objectives (Maqasid) of this religion. This moderation avoids both laxity and excessiveness and reconciles reason and revelation, taking into consideration the material and spiritual needs of man, with a balanced outlook on life which brings together the existence in the next life as well as constructive work in this world.

3.   In its principles, rulings and values, Islam can be structured under the following three areas: the creed as expressed in the six pillars of faith — Belief in God, the Angels, the revealed books, the messengers, the Hereafter and Divine Decree; the Shari'ah as expressed in acts of Worship and human interaction; and the Ethical code which lays down the foundations for living the good life. These three interconnected areas are complementary and aim to fulfil the Interests (Maslaha) of humanity and avert harm from it.

4.   The emphasis on the human dimension, legislative flexibility and respect for diversity and natural differences among human beings are important characteristics of Islam.

5.   Islam has honoured human beings as stewards of the earth. This honour embraces all the children of Adam, both male and female, without discrimination. By virtue of this honour, human beings are to be protected from anything that is an affront to their dignity, is harmful to their mental faculties, is damaging to their health or which abuses their rights by exploiting their vulnerabilities.

6.   Islam gives particular emphasis to the social dimension and calls for compassion, mutual support, co-operation and brotherhood. These values are exemplified in the rights due to parents, relatives, neighbours, the poor, the needy, the sick, the elderly and others, regardless of their race or creed.

7.   Islam calls for equality between man and woman within the framework of mutual respect and views that a balanced life is one in which the relationship between man and woman is harmonious and complementary. It unequivocally rejects all notions or actions that undermine women or deprive them of their legitimate rights, regardless of some customs or habits of some Muslims. Islam strongly opposes the exploitation of women and their treatment as mere objects of desire.

8.   Islam considers that a family based on the bonds of marriage between a man and a woman is the natural and necessary environment for the raising of future generations. The family is the basis for the happiness of an individual and the stability of society. Thus, Islam emphasises the significance of taking all measures in order to reinforce the family and protect it from all things that will weaken or marginalise its role.

9.   Islam respects human rights and calls for equality among all human beings, it rejects all forms of racial discrimination and emphasises the importance of liberty. Hence it condemns compulsion in religion and allows the individual freedom of conscience. Furthermore, Islam encourages that freedom ought to be exercised in accordance with moral values and respect for law, such that it does not infringe upon the rights of others.

10. Islam calls for mutual acquaintance between people, dialogue and co-operation among people and nations so as to enhance co-existence and achieve peace in the world. The term Jihad that occurs in Islamic texts means to exert all efforts towards good, starting from reforming oneself to spreading truth and justice between people. Jihad in its understanding as warfare is regarded as one of the means available to a Muslim state when it needs to defend itself against aggression. This is in compliance with international law. Based on such an understanding of Jihad, Islam rejects indiscriminate violence and terrorism and supports just causes and affirms the right of all people to defend themselves by legitimate means.

11. Islam enjoins upon Muslims to be honest and respect their undertakings. It forbids treason and treachery. It ordains excellence in dealings with other people and the rest of creation.

12. In view of the virtues of consultation (Shura) and with consideration to the developments in the political, legislative and constitutional realms, Islam affirms the principles of democracy based on pluralism, freedom to choose political authority and peaceful alternation of power.

13. Islam urges human beings to use nature in a responsible manner. This requires the preservation of the environment and its protection from all causes of pollution and harm as well as anything that will destroy the delicate balance of nature. Likewise, it requires the protection of natural resources and forbids cruelty to animals, over-consumption and wastage of wealth.

Section Two: The Muslim Presence in Society

The Principles of Interaction Among Muslims

1.   Despite their ethnic and cultural diversity and their affiliations to various schools of Islamic law and thought, Muslims of Europe all constitute one religious entity within a framework of Islamic principles united by fraternity. Likewise throughout the European states, they also share a belonging to the state in which they reside. Any discrimination arising between them based on ethnic origin is against the value of Islam which emphasises unity.

2.   Based on the principles of their religion and on shared interests, Muslims of Europe are urged to come together and co-operate and co-ordinate the efforts of their different institutions. This should not fail to recognise the natural diversity that exists among them, within the framework of Islam as generally agreed by consensus.

3.   In addition to their belonging to the country in which they reside and their commitment to citizenship, Muslims of Europe also belong to the Muslim 'Ummah.' Their connection with Muslims around the world is natural by virtue of their belonging to the same faith. This relationship should be capitalized upon in strengthening the links between Europe and the Islamic world, as any form of mutual help among people of the world is encouraged.

On Citizenship

1.   Muslims of Europe respect the laws of the land and the authorities that uphold them. This should not prevent them from individually or collectively defending their rights and expressing their opinions based on their specific concerns as a religious community or any general matter that concerns them as citizens. Whenever there is a conflict with regards to certain laws and matters that are specific to religion, the relevant authorities should be approached in order to arrive at suitable and viable solutions.

2.   Muslims of Europe adhere to the principle of secularism based on the neutrality of the state regarding religious affairs. This means just dealings with all religions and allows those who hold religious values to express their beliefs and practice the rites of their religion either as individuals or groups in both the general and specific matters, as is specified in European and international human rights charters and treaties. On this basis, it remains the right of Muslims, as religious communities, to establish mosques, religious, educational and welfare institutions to practice their religion in day-to-day affairs in virtue of diet, clothing and other needs.

3.   As European citizens, Muslims of Europe regard that it is their duty to work for the good of society and their enthusiasm in this endeavour should be no less than their enthusiasm in demanding their rights. They are required to play an active role in society, in contributing, taking the initiative and striving to bring benefit to others.

4.   Muslims are urged to positively integrate with their respective societies, on the basis of a harmonious balance between preservation of Muslim identity and the duties of citizenship. Any form of integration that fails to recognise the right of Muslims to preserve their Islamic personality and the right to perform their religious obligations does not serve the interests of Muslims nor the European societies to which they belong.

5.   Muslims of Europe are encouraged to participate in the political process as active citizens. Real citizenship includes political engagement from casting one's vote to taking part in political institutions.

6.   Muslims of Europe emphasise their respect for pluralism and the religious and philosophical diversity of the multicultural societies they live in. They believe that Islam affirms the diversity that exists between people and so is not discomforted by this multicultural reality. Rather Islam calls for members of society to appreciate and enrich one another through their differences.

Islam's Contribution to Europe

1.   The universal and humane principles of Islam endorse the coming together of the world so long as the rights and particularities of peoples are respected and the principles of fairness in trade and co-operation are observed without exploitation and hegemonic use of power. Hence Muslims of Europe consider it their duty to consolidate relations between Europe and the Muslim world. This requires that we free ourselves from the mutual prejudices and negative impressions that exist between Islam and the West so that bridges of fruitful exchange can be built.

2.   Given its culturally rich heritage and emphasis on humanity, Islam, through its presence in Europe, can participate in enhancing important values in contemporary society such as justice, freedom, fraternity, equality and solidarity. It gives primacy to moral considerations as well as to scientific, technical and economic progress. This participation can be beneficial and enriching for the whole society.

3.   The Muslim presence in Europe is regarded as a key element in establishing better communication and co-existence between the different religions and beliefs by encouraging discussion between different faiths and ideologies. This will no doubt bolster the path towards global peace.

4.   Through their religious and cultural legacy as well as their presence in many different European states, Muslims of Europe represent a supporting element to the efforts of strengthening the European Union. With its diverse religious and cultural make up, Europe can act as an important civilizational signpost with a key role in maintaining international stability between influential world powers.

"Oh Mankind, indeed we created you from a male and female and have made you different nations and tribes so that you may get to know one another." (Qur'an, The Chambers [Al-Hujurat]: 13)