Young Muslims in Berlin: Between tradition and modern identity

Transparenz: Redaktionell erstellt und geprüft.
Veröffentlicht am

The article examines the growing identity of young Muslims in Germany, their approach to religion and the influence of extremist ideologies since 2024.

Young Muslims in Berlin: Between tradition and modern identity

A case that draws attention to the dark side of social media: A teenager from the Tulln district was found guilty by the St. Pölten regional court of running a terrorist cell on the Internet. Loud noen.at the case shows how strong the influence of extremist ideologies has become on young people. Before his arrest, the 16-year-old had developed an increasing interest in terrorist groups such as the Islamic State (IS) and al-Qaeda, encouraged by his circle of friends. He presented himself on social networks in images with Islamist connotations and even spread IS propaganda on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok.

The dangers of modern youth culture

This case comes in the context of a growing trend among young people who are rediscovering Islam and the cultural identities associated with it. How Deutschlandfunk culture describes, there is an increasing number of young Muslims, but also atheists and people of other faiths who see Muhammad as a role model. This change is particularly evident in urban areas, where young people often proudly present their identity as Muslims. Mosques are experiencing an increase in popularity and the religious commandments are appealing to many young people because they offer clear rules and guidance that are often sought in a complex world.

The social tensions are also evident in the school environment, where young people try to find their place between traditional beliefs and modern life. This dialogue about questions of faith is often characterized by uncertainty. The pressure to conform and live traditional values ​​has grown, especially among girls, while the influence of extremist movements has increased significantly in recent years. The complexity of these issues requires a deeper engagement with Islam, which many young people often do not receive.

In view of the dangers posed by radical ideologies, both schools and religious communities are called upon to pay more attention to the issue and to organize an educational process. It is a challenge to show young people ways in which they can live their faith without losing themselves in extremist ways of thinking.