01: The recent formation of the Council of Ex-Muslims is an attempt by religious “apostates” to support each other and speak out against their former religion in Europe. The council claims to represent the views of a majority of secular-minded Muslims in Europe.
The council’s leader, Maryam Namazie, said it would be a branch of a growing network of secular “ex-Muslims” who oppose the interference of religion in public life. The group seems to use anti-cultist rhetoric, claiming that the “cult-like nature of Islam” makes it difficult or impossible for people to leave the group. Those who do leave are subjected to false claims, hate- and harassment activities, or even death.
The council is supported by the British Humanist Association and National Secular Society and is associated with groups in other European countries, principally Germany. Iranian-born Namazie is a human rights activist whose family fled the country during the 1980 Islamic Revolution. She has frequently challenged religious thinkers over the way she says they try to control the lives of individuals, particularly women. The new group would be an alternative voice to bodies like the Muslim Council of Britain, as it claims that many people who disagree with the opinions of religious leaders are afraid of speaking out.
Namazie urges governments to stop dealing with Islamic organizations that were pushing their values on other people and limiting free speech and not keeping religion in the private sphere.
(Source: The Telegraph, June 21)