Monday 1 March to Sunday 7 March 2010

Editorial

The last decade will almost certainly be remembered for the Labour Party having won an unprecedented three general election victories. It will also sadly be remembered for the tragic events of 9/11 and 7/7, which changed the course of political debate and discourse around the world and the conflicts that followed in Iraq and Afghanistan. From Palestine to Georgia, the first decade of the 21^st century was littered with international conflicts, while at home it was characterised by government policy towards combating the threat of extremism and how to encourage Muslims to be part of the political and civil dialogue.

Often the common perception is that politics is only about being a local Councillor or an MP. Political engagement is of course much more than this. From writing letters, to forming small focus groups or protesting – voicing our concerns about issues and policies – one way or another, whether we notice it or not, we are engaging in politics and playing a role in wider society. The Quran states, ‘Verily, never will God change the condition of a people until they change it themselves’ (13:11). The call to participate and promote change for the better is thereby clear and encouraged.

As we enter a new decade, one can wonder what it will hold for Muslims and the wider community in the UK. Will it be a positive or negative ten years? Will we see progress on the issues most important to you? Should different faiths, communities and causes work together? Will the new decade be characterised by more Muslims engaging politically and in wider society? Or should we even be playing a role at all?

The questions are there and this new decade will certainly throw up ever more and evolving questions about Muslims in the UK – but what do you think?

The Platform Editorial Team