Resentment among Muslims: New study warns of radicalization!

Resentment among Muslims: New study warns of radicalization!

A research team from University of Münster has initiated a four-year project to carry out a detailed investigation into the dynamics of radicalization and resentment among Muslims in Germany. This study aims to understand the interconnectedness of emotional insults and integration issues and to analyze their influence on the development of radicalization. A survey of 1,887 Muslims already shows that around 20% of them feel resentment that could potentially have a radicalizing effect.

It is important to warn scientists that not everyone who feels resentment automatically becomes radical. However, if negative experiences due to discrimination or social isolation can lead to a solidified feeling of being offended, this is identified as a known breeding ground for radicalization. Prof. Dr. Mouhanad Khorchide, one of the researchers, is therefore calling for measures to strengthen Muslims' social belonging, including by expanding spaces for recognition and increasing Islamic religious instruction in schools.

Methodology details

The research team conducted over 160 qualitative interviews in Turkish and Arab backgrounds. This comprehensive methodology combines quantitative studies with qualitative analyzes to capture social, integration and religious factors. The majority of respondents show differentiated reactions to experiences of discrimination and insults, which underlines the complexity of their emotions.

The results of the study paint a differentiated picture: Muslims in Germany show both satisfaction and dissatisfaction with their lives, although their reactions to discrimination are often characterized by calmness. But when it comes to vicarious narratives of discrimination, such as those experienced by an 18-year-old woman named Lina, less calm can be observed. Lina, who is discriminated against because of her headscarf, often finds herself in the growing minority identity. Their everyday experiences illustrate the problems that many young Muslims face.

Resentment and radicalization

In a further context explains the Resentment Project the mechanisms behind radicalization. The project analyzes how negative social experiences such as discrimination can lead to an entrenched feeling of resentment that takes on a life of its own. It becomes clear that this process is not linear, but is shaped by individual and social factors.

A crucial finding is that resentment plays a central role in radicalization processes; both violent and non-violent forms are affected. To counteract this, empirically based recommendations are given, such as strengthening the ability to criticize within Islam and promoting an open, non-fundamentalist faith.

In summary, attention is also drawn to the extensive context of discrimination that is widespread in society and is reflected in the everyday experiences of Muslims. Many report that they are constantly perceived as “others”, which puts additional strain on their identity in society. This is exemplified by the example of young Lina, whose intention to understand her religion and establish herself in Muslim communities simultaneously represents a search for belonging and identity.

The results of the comprehensive study by the University of Münster are scheduled to be published in August 2025 and could provide decisive impetus for the political and social discussion about integration and radicalization. Further context on discrimination and radicalization is also available on the platform Federal Agency for Civic Education to find.