Muslims in Slovenia: Between Tolerance and Discrimination Cover Image

Muslims in Slovenia: Between Tolerance and Discrimination
Muslims in Slovenia: Between Tolerance and Discrimination

Author(s): Veronika Bajt
Subject(s): Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Islam studies, Cultural Anthropology / Ethnology, Social development, Identity of Collectives
Published by: Hrvatsko sociološko društvo
Keywords: muslims; islamic religious practice; discrimination; Slovenia;

Summary/Abstract: The article examines the position of Muslims in Slovenia, with a particular focus on the articulation of the needs of an Islamic way of life as conveyed by the Muslims themselves. Using new empirical material, I draw on interviews with representatives of the Muslim community. The Slovenian Muslims find themselves in a peculiar situation of, on the one hand, being tolerated, particularly on account of sharing historical South Slavic bonds with the majority Catholic population; yet, they are at the same time faced with discrimination and prejudice. The research shows that – as Islam remains for the most part secluded from public discourse and thus prone to stereotypical representations pregnant with misconceptions and prejudice – the Muslims in Slovenia experience prejudice, and are exposed to particular discrimination in terms of practicing their religion.

  • Issue Year: 39/2008
  • Issue No: 4
  • Page Range: 221-234
  • Page Count: 14
  • Language: English