Salafism in Germany: Democracy and Resilience

This chapter explores the challenges Salafists present to Western liberal democracy, with a particular emphasis on Germany. Through Jaraba’s detailed fieldwork centered on the al-Tawhid mosque, recognized as a hub for Salafist endeavors, it becomes evident that Salafists strongly advocate for Muslims to distance themselves from the broader society. Adopting a bottom-up strategy, they focus on local Muslim communities with the intent to methodically diminish democratic principles. While the examination of the al-Tawhid mosque offers significant insights, the implications stretch beyond a singular case. Salafist groups consistently disseminate their ideologies via sermons and social platforms, intensifying the potential for radicalization. This chapter emphasizes the crucial need to bolster democratic resilience, safeguarding Muslim populations from the pervasive narratives of Salafists to maintain societal harmony and uphold democratic institutions.