Given this fragile environment, how can the EU combat terrorism without alienating or undermining the new European Islamic identity? It seems that before governments initiate any more aggressive counter-terrorism measures, a bona fide legal and social framework that ensures the rights and protections of all citizens must be established. Crucial steps ought to include amendments to various anti-discrimination laws that would incorporate religious intolerance, stricter adherence to the Geneva Convention of 1951 regarding political asylum seekers, and government-sponsored development of "inter-community" task forces, such as police networks, discussion forums, and education/awareness programs. It has also been widely suggested that the media and various political bodies should increase the voice and presence of Muslims in the public sphere, as often Muslim popular opinion is only consulted with regards to negative events and thus perpetuates the detrimental stereotypes about Islam. Only once the European Muslim community is given just representation and equal rights under the law can the Union safely pursue those who seek to use Islam as a weapon.…
