ABSTRACT

This article delves into the evolving concept of “political Islam”, particularly through the lens of recent demonstrations in Hamburg. It examines the intellectual and sociopolitical movements within Muslim communities and explores how Islamist trends and ideologies have been analyzed in scholarly and policy-focused literature since the 1970s.

By investigating the integration of religious and political spheres, the formation of new identities, and the efforts to position Islam as a significant influence in public life, this study highlights the complexities of political Islam. Additionally, it addresses the impact of epistemological shifts in the 1980s and 1990s, challenging the secularization thesis and emphasizing the persistent role of religion in modern societies. The article also considers contemporary debates on the compatibility of political Islam with secularism, the challenges of integrating Islamic principles into state governance, and the importance of religious literacy and big data in countering radicalization and fostering social cohesion.

The Hamburg demonstrations serve as a case study to illustrate these dynamics and the ongoing dialogue surrounding political Islam.