The Promise of the Social Contract: Muslim Perspectives on the Culturalization of Citizenship and the Demand to Denounce Violent Extremism

Abstract

Since the 9/11 attacks, Muslims in Europe have been urged to denounce terrorism. Many Muslims experience a constant pressure to show that they are peaceful and loyal citizens. Based on archival material and semi-structed interviews, this article explores how Dutch Muslims deal with this pressure, and provides an analysis of critical interventions made by Muslims in public debate about violent extremism. What motivates some Muslims to speak up against acts of terror committed in the name of Islam, whereas other Muslims openly refuse to make such statements despite cherishing equally little support for such violence? This article provides crucial insights into the ways in which the “culturalization of citizenship” is reinforced and contested by those whose belonging in Dutch society is being questioned. It also raises questions about what it means for Muslims to “talk back” (as conceptualized by bell hooks) when the dominant majority urges them to talk.