The European Parliament has approved a resolution calling on European Union member states to develop a joint strategy to counter what it describes as “Islamist entryism” and Muslim Brotherhood networks across Europe.
Resolution Backed by Conservatives and Far-Right Groups
The resolution was submitted by the European People’s Party (EPP) and received support from conservative and far-right groups, as well as some liberal lawmakers.
Left-wing political groups opposed the proposal from the outset and voted against it.
The resolution passed with 381 votes in favor, 167 against and 15 abstentions.
Parliament Calls for Common European Approach
In the resolution, the European Parliament condemns what it describes as a “strategy of Islamist entryism aimed at weakening democratic institutions” across EU member states.
It also opposes legitimizing networks that, according to the resolution, seek to undermine established civil institutions.
The Parliament called on EU member states to develop a common European approach to identifying signs of Islamist entryism and what it described as the use of “double messaging” in religious and political discourse.
Support for Muslim Voices Promoting Democracy
At the same time, the resolution calls for greater support for Muslim intellectuals and activists who advocate democracy and freedom of conscience.
The European Parliament also called for individuals and entities linked to the Muslim Brotherhood to be added to terrorism lists, adding another layer to the ongoing European debate over the organization and its networks.
The resolution reflects growing political divisions within the European Parliament over how EU governments should address Islamist movements and organizations, particularly those accused of seeking influence within European political and civil institutions.
