There are many issues facing Muslims in the world today. These range from an educational and intellectual lethargy at one extreme, to the increase in violent radicalisation at the other. Contrary to popular perception, Islam and its followers do not constitute a monolithic block. Just as there are many diverse races, nationalities and cultures which make up the world’s Muslim population, similarly there are many and varied reasons for the problems experienced (and caused) by Muslims. Although it is superficially attractive to simplify such reasons and utilise labels such as “moderate” and “extremist”, there are dangers inherent in such an approach. We are of the view that in order for there to be genuinely good relations between communities of different faiths there needs to be a deeper appreciation of what is required for true tolerance. By this we mean the tolerance of understanding and appreciating each other, rather than that of simply putting up with each other.

Spirit of Cordoba intends to enhance such mutual understanding in order to prevent the “Clash of Civilisations” from becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy. In this task the role of Muslims in the West is of vital importance and is a unique responsibility that cannot and should not be avoided.

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