In recent months, a disturbing wave of Qur’an burnings in Western countries has reignited anger, protests, and diplomatic tensions across the Muslim world. While freedom of expression is cited by some, millions of Muslims view these acts as deliberate provocations and hate crimes targeting Islam and its sacred values.
๐ Incidents in 2025
- Sweden – A far-right activist burned a copy of the Qur’an outside a mosque during Eid al-Adha, prompting protests in Stockholm and condemnation from OIC member states.
- Netherlands – A politician publicly desecrated the Qur’an during a nationalist rally in The Hague.
- Germany – Authorities permitted a controversial Qur’an-burning protest, sparking a diplomatic protest from several Muslim-majority countries.
These acts have been met with mass protests in Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and many other countries. Scholars and leaders argue that desecrating holy books is not “free speech” but hate speech aimed at marginalizing Muslims.
๐ Muslim Nations React
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has called for international legislation criminalizing attacks on religious symbols and books. In a joint statement, several Muslim-majority countries demanded that European governments take stronger action against hate speech under the guise of freedom.
“The continuous targeting of Islam and its sacred symbols will not be tolerated,” said a statement from the Grand Mufti of Egypt.
๐ What Does Islam Say?
The Qur’an commands Muslims to respond to ignorance with dignity:
“And when they hear ill speech, they turn away from it and say, ‘For us are our deeds, and for you are your deeds. Peace be upon you; we seek not the ignorant.’” — Surah Al-Qasas (28:55)
While the act of burning the Qur’an causes deep pain to Muslims, Islamic teachings encourage believers to respond with patience, wisdom, and unity—without resorting to violence.
๐ฌ Global Muslim Advocacy
Islamic organizations and scholars are urging:
- Legal reforms in Western countries to ban hate-based religious attacks
- Mass peaceful protests to raise awareness globally
- Boycotts of products from countries that fail to act against Islamophobia
- Educational campaigns on the sanctity of the Qur’an and interfaith respect
๐ฃ Call to Action
Muslim youth and activists are mobilizing digitally under hashtags like #ProtectQuran and #StopIslamophobia. Influential da’wah channels and Muslim influencers are calling for unity and strategic responses rooted in Islamic ethics.
⚖️ Freedom or Hate?
The debate continues: Should freedom of speech include the right to burn scriptures? As the line between freedom and hate becomes blurrier, Muslims globally are demanding justice, dignity, and protection of their religious rights.
๐ Sources: UN Human Rights Office, Al Jazeera, TRT World, OIC Press Releases | Compiled & Edited by: ababilislamicnews.blogspot.com
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