A Look at the Muslim Community in Bulgaria
A Look at the Muslim Community in Bulgaria

Integration and Risks

Summary/Abstract: The article discusses key aspects concerning the social profile of Bulgarian Muslims – the second largest traditional religious community in Bulgaria. Based on two representative studies (2011 and 2016), the main features and trends in their social status, values, religious practices as well as political attitudes are analyzed against the background of the new geopolitical situation in Europe and the world. The results show that tradition and modernity co-exist in the value system of Bulgarian Muslims. They demonstrate a high level of adherence to religious practices, but also clearly express attitudes in favour of the secular state system. Like in 2011, they maintain very good interpersonal relations with Christians. But in 2016 there was a considerable change towards a greater community encapsulation. Despite good relations between religious communities in the country, against the backdrop of rising nationalism in Europe three major risks – both for Bulgaria and for the Balkan region –can be highlighted: The revival of fears and increasing tension between the ethnic and religious communities, a growing ethno-partisan corrupt clientele, and the radicalization of ghetto communities.

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