The struggle for identity in the context of integration: Being a Muslim in Europe (The case of Netherlands)

The study deals with the relationship between the religious identity demands of Muslim immigrants in Europe and integration the theoretical basis of recognition theories. The focus of the study is the effect of the religious identity demands of Muslim immigrants on social integration, based on the "acceptance" and "respect" data of the religious identity demands of Muslim immigrants in the European social and public sphere. Increasing Muslim identity characteristics in the European social and public sphere are the focus of discussion as determining factors in social relations. In this context, the struggle for identity of Muslim immigrants in European social life is evaluated within the framework of integration. Quantitative research model was used in the study, as well as qualitative research techniques, group interview and participant observations were also used. Two separate surveys, including Dutch individuals and Muslim immigrants and in-depth interviews were performed. The findings, it was concluded that the Muslim religious identity demands in Dutch society are "respected" and "disrespected" in the context of integration. On the other hand, although the religious identity belongs of Muslim immigrants is high, integration attitudes are also high. This meaningful relationship between attitudes has been evaluated as the desire of Muslim immigrants to exist. European society with their religious identity. The "unaccepted" or "disrespected" demands for in the conceptual framework of recognition theories appear as "struggle for identity". It has been concluded that Muslim immigrants groups want to adapt to the European social structure without giving up their religious identity demands.