Paris, France – The Muslim Brotherhood in Europe has entered an unprecedented phase of political and security scrutiny. This comes after the debate surrounding its role and activities moved from academic and media circles to decision-making bodies and parliamentary chambers, as well as intelligence agencies in several European countries. This shift coincides with growing European concern about the dangers of ideological extremism and transnational funding, as well as their apprehension regarding the group’s impact on social cohesion and democratic values.
According to the Spanish newspaper La Razón, this increased European attention did not arise in a vacuum. Rather, it resulted from a buildup of security and intelligence reports that revealed networks and associations linked to the Muslim Brotherhood. These networks operate under the guise of charitable or cultural work, but are accused of spreading extremist rhetoric and building parallel spheres of influence within European societies.
France in the lead
France is leading the European scene in its hardening stance on the Muslim Brotherhood. Parliamentary committees have discussed in recent months the possibility of adding the group to the European list of terrorist organizations. The French parliament has unveiled a draft law submitted by the Republicans party. This proposal aims to officially include the group on the European terrorist list. This move reflects a clear shift in the official view of the risks associated with what Paris describes as “silent ideological infiltration.”
French newspapers, including Le Figaro, indicated that this move coincided with security reports. These reports warned of the activities of networks linked to the Muslim Brotherhood operating through associations, mosques, and educational institutions. These networks exploit the legal frameworks governing civil society work. In response, the French government announced stricter controls on foreign funding. It also announced a reorganization of imam training and expanded powers to dissolve non-compliant associations.
A broader security approach
Intelligence agencies have classified groups linked to the Muslim Brotherhood as a potential threat to constitutional security. These agencies believe the danger lies in their long-term efforts to undermine democratic values. In Spain and Belgium, surveillance and monitoring operations are ongoing.
This comes amid growing calls within the European Union to expedite the group’s designation as a terrorist organization. This demonstrates increasing European awareness of the Muslim Brotherhood’s threat within the continent.
