Muslims in Britain - Tackling Extremism

The author of this site contributes in various ways to the issues of extremism among Muslims. He comes from the unusual position of combining access to authoritative Islamic knowledge, practical experience of tackling such problems in the Muslim community, wide knowledge of local Muslim communities around the UK, and professional involvement across the criminal justice system.

Following the bombings of 7th July 2005, he submitted a report privately to the Home Office, and this was published by Advanced Research and Assessment Group (ARAG) of the Defence Academy of the UK in August 2006.

This report can be downloaded here as a PDF file. (1.85MB - click once and wait for it to arrive.)

"In this short, incisive, and closely argued paper, the author has opened the way for a wider discussion of an issue of real importance to our national security. He identifies the key issues that he believes affect all Muslim communities in the UK to day. In doing so, he succeeds in demonstrating the great theological and ethnic diversity of these communities – something that is not widely recognised or understood. Furthermore, this is not merely an analysis. The author presents us with an an assessment of the situation and puts forward recommendations as a basis for opening a discussion on how to tackle the problem effectively." Chris Donnelly, Senior Fellow, Defence Academy of the UK, Head of the Advanced Research and Assessment Group

"An important contribution [...] on the subject of tackling extremism among Muslim youth" Lieutenant General Sir John Kiszely, Director, Defence Academy of the UK

The "Problems and Practical Solutions" paper is a summary of discussions of a range of issues that are being devloped through various forums. Other briefings on subjects such as 'radical' groupings, the status of imams, questions of identity and loyalty etc. will be added here as they become available.

The set of practical actions is complex and interrelated, and while for some of them there has been progress, others have retrogressed. This site will accordingly endeavour to provide suggestions for an overall strategy that shows the linkages, progress and obstacles. Interested parties include local and national Muslim organisations, local government, education, welfare and voluntary bodies, central government and police.

Material for the site is generated through voluntary efforts as time permits. Please return to the site at regular intervals for updates. If there is anything particular you would like to pursue, please use the comments facility to contact the author.