In the United States, Donald Trump is taking aim at Islam, putting the faith front and center in a contentious presidential campaign. But across Europe, populist leaders are doing the same, pointing a finger of blame at Islam for threatening domestic cultures and security even as critics decry such statements as a serious threat to freedom of religion and minority rights.
Here’s what 10 conservative and far-right leaders have recently said about Islam:
Where: Germany.
Who: Alexander Gauland, deputy chairman of the Alternative for Germany party.
What he said: “Islam is not a religion like Catholic or Protestant Christianity, but a faith linked intellectually with a takeover of the state. Therefore, the Islamization of Germany is a danger.” [The Washington Post] Read more
