In recent years, European countries, such as Sweden and Germany, have increased their focus on ‘Islamic centres’ suspected of foreign ties and possible espionage activities.
Accusations Against the Imam Ali Islamic Centre
In early February 2025, the Swedish government made accusations against the Imam Ali Islamic Center in Stockholm.
The Swedish Minister of Social Affairs, Jakob Fushmed, claimed that the centre was used as a platform for Iranian espionage, targeting both Swedish citizens and the Iranian diaspora living in the country.
Therefore, the centre’s activities go beyond religious observances, the minister said, and included intelligence gathering on the political activities of Iranians in Sweden.
Such allegations heighten concerns among Sweden’s Muslim community, over Swedish surveillance and Iranian influence, thereby calling into question the balance between national security and religious freedom.
Similar Situation, Further South: Germany
Further south, in Europe, similar allegations took place in Germany in July 2024.
At that time, the German federal government banned the Islamic Centre in Hamburg, accusing it of having ties to the Iranian regime and supporting extremist organisations, including the banned Hezbollah group.
The German Interior Ministry claimed that the centre acted as a direct representative of the Iranian government. The Ministry claimed the centre promoted the ideology of the “Islamic revolution” whilst engaging in espionage activities in Germany.
Searches were carried out, materials seized, and the centre’s activities were completely stopped.
Iran’s Reaction
All of these developments are taking place against the backdrop of tensions between Europe and Iran. Accusations of espionage and interference in Europe are increasing tensions at a time when Iran is on the backfoot after the decimation of Iranian proxies in Lebanon, Gaza, and now Syria.
Iranian authorities reject all accusations, claiming that such actions are politically motivated. They claim that Islamic centers in Europe are engaged exclusively in religious and cultural activities.
Security and Freedom of Religion
The allegations against Islamic centers in Europe raise difficult questions about the balance between ensuring national security and protecting rights and freedoms.
On the one hand, governments have a duty to protect their citizens from potential threats, which very often come from Muslim countries, and to prevent espionage activities by foreign states.
Whilst it is important to prevent the splurge of unfounded criticisms levied at people for practising their faith, authorities in Europe must not overstep the mark. Religious freedoms are a important benchmark in European society.
The Future of Islamic centres
However, experts believe that national governments, across Europe, will have to ramp up surveillance and interference in order to prevent terrorism and espionage.
The new approach may include more transparent mechanisms for monitoring religious communities. It is important that European states develop solutions that take into account both security and the rights of minorities.
At the same time, Islamic centres, in turn, can demand protection from unfounded accusations and discrimination.
The balance between security and genuine religious rights will determine the future of Islamic centres in Europe in the coming years.
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