Islam and Freedom of Religion and Belief in Spain

Abstract

Unlike other European countries, the Islamic component is a distinctive feature of Spain's past and an element of its identity. Spain's exceptional relationship with Islam, as a culture, a civilization, and a religion, dates back to the eighth century AD. However, the fall of the Kingdom of Granada in 1492 AD/898 AH and the expulsion of Muslims from Andalusian lands marked the end of Muslim rule in the Iberian Peninsula, and with it, the Islamic presence, officially ceased. From this date until the early twentieth century, the presence of Islam was virtually absent from the Spanish religious map. But with the arrival of more than five million immigrants to Spain over the past three decades, it has reshaped the religious landscape of Spain and transformed it into a more diverse and pluralistic country. This article aims to study and analyse the various manifestations of the Islamic presence in Spain. After introducing the topic in relation to immigration, we explore the close relationship between Islam and Spain from the Islamic conquest of Andalusia to the present day. We also examine the issue of freedom of religion and belief as framed by the Spanish legal system since the milestone 1967 legislation. This law was the first in Spain to recognizes freedom of belief, regulates freedom of worship, and define the state’s relationship with all religions’ manifestations. Furthermore, we study and analyse the lived reality  of Muslims and Islam in Spain, as well as Islamic associations and federations and their role in defending their rights and preserving their accomplishments. Given its close relevance to our research topic, significant portion of this study is devoted to the challenges of integration and coexistence. We also investigate the role of civil institutions in fostering tolerance, cultural dialogue, and coexistence, aiming to advance peoples and ensure their security and peace.