On Monday, outside Stockholm’s Royal Palace, two individuals reignited an ongoing debate by burning a copy of the Quran. Salwan Momika, 37, and Salwan Najem, 48, set the Islamic holy book on fire as counter-protesters implored them to “extinguish their hate.” This act has intensified the discussion in both Sweden and Denmark, as they grapple with the challenge of accommodating protected free speech while combating religious intolerance and xenophobia.
Although incidents involving Quran burning in these countries are relatively uncommon, they have raised concerns among leaders in northern Europe. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson recently emphasized the severity of the situation, stating it as the most significant security issue since World War II. Discussions surrounding this topic have even impacted Sweden’s NATO membership bid, as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan previously imposed a veto due to Quran burning incidents. However, Erdoğan decided to lift the veto last month.
In response to Quran burning, protests have erupted in several Muslim-majority countries, including Iraq. Last month, the Swedish embassy in Iraq was stormed, resulting in the expulsion of the ambassador and the torching of the compound. Swedish telecom company Ericsson also faced consequences, with the Iraqi Prime Minister suspending their work permit. Consequently, both Danish and Swedish governments face the challenging task of balancing domestic criticism and allegations of succumbing to external pressure while delicate diplomatic relationships with the Muslim world hang in the balance.
Here is an overview of key aspects to consider regarding this subject:
1. Who is engaged in Quran burning?
The controversy gained momentum when Rasmus Paludan, a Danish-Swedish far-right extremist, burned a copy of the Quran outside Turkey’s embassy in Stockholm in January. Since then, Momika, an Iraqi refugee linked previously to extremist Christian militias, has obtained permits for Quran-burning protests in Stockholm. Others, including two members of the ultranationalist group Danske Patrioter, joined by burning copies of the Quran in front of diplomatic premises.
2. Legal perspectives in Sweden and Denmark
While both countries have abolished their blasphemy laws, laws that prohibit hate speech still exist. However, the question of whether symbolic attacks against religions are within the scope of hate speech remains contested. Denmark has already considered reforming laws around Quran burning, acknowledging possibilities for change. Sweden, on the other hand, has stated that it lacks legal means to prevent Quran burnings, although they are open to revising the Public Order Act if national security is at risk.
3. The uprising of Islamophobia
Although the number of individuals burning Qurans remains small, the sharing of videos and livestreams of these incidents amplifies their reach. This exposure can legitimize the views of a tiny minority and perpetuate the belief that Islamophobia is pervasive in Sweden. However, it is vital to note that political leaders condemn Quran burnings and consider them expressions of Islamophobia, even if some leaders express contempt for the religion. Surveys indicate that the majority of Swedes support a ban on burning any religious text.
4. Concerns of Nordic leaders
Sweden and Denmark face heightened security risks, as warned by their intelligence services. By seemingly being lenient towards Quran burnings, these countries risk alienating Muslim-majority nations. However, experts suggest that some Muslim leaders exploit this outrage for personal gain. President Erdoğan utilized Quran burnings to leverage negotiations over Sweden’s NATO membership, gaining concessions in return. Similarly, Iraqi Shia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr has manipulated the issue to bolster his support ahead of elections.
The Quran burning controversy in Sweden and Denmark poses a significant challenge for these nations. Striking a balance between freedom of speech and avoiding religious intolerance amidst diplomatic repercussions is a complex dilemma. While the majority of Swedes oppose Quran burnings, it is essential to address the security risks and the intentions behind the outrage from certain Muslim entities. Finding a middle ground that upholds national security without sacrificing diplomatic relationships will be the ultimate test for these countries in the face of this contentious issue.
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