The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has a century-long history in Europe, characterized by early missionary work, the establishment of landmark mosques, and a strong emphasis on interfaith peace and social integration.
Ahmadiyya Muslim Association UK +1
Key Regional Presence
- United Kingdom: Established in 1913, the UK serves as the community’s global headquarters in Islamabad, Tilford. It is home to Baitul Futuh, the largest mosque in Western Europe, and approximately 35,000 members.
- Germany: One of the most active branches, with over 40,000 members. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat (AMJ) Germany was the first Islamic organization to be granted “corporation under public law” status in some states.
- Scandinavia and Western Europe: The community has established missions and mosques in Switzerland (1946), Italy (1937), and Belgium (1982).
Historical Milestones
- First Mosques: They built the Fazl Mosque in London (1926) and the Berlin Mosque (1924), which were among the first purpose-built mosques in their respective countries.
- European Parliament Address: In 2012, the community’s worldwide leader, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, delivered a historic keynote address at the European Parliament calling for global peace and unity.
Al Hakam +4
Current Role and Challenges
- Integration and Outreach: The community is known for its “Love for All, Hatred for None” motto, organizing annual peace symposiums and humanitarian projects.
- Asylum and Persecution: Many Ahmadis in Europe are refugees fleeing state-sponsored persecution in Pakistan, where they are legally declared non-Muslims.
- Media and Dialogue: They operate MTA International, a global satellite TV network based in London, to broadcast religious and educational content across Europe.
Human Rights Without Frontiers +6
Would you like to know more about the legal status of the Ahmadiyya community in a specific European country, or more details on their annual conventions (Jalsa Salana)?
Categories: The Muslim Times