Islam and muslims in Denmark

Abstract

Traditionally, Denmark has not regarded itself as a country of immigration but within 4 decades of immigration the demographic profile of the country has changed. Alongside the process of immigration, groups of immigrants with different religious backgrounds have altered the religious landscape of Denmark. A 100 years ago there were only very few people with e.g., Buddhist, Hindu or Muslim background. Today the situation has changed fundamentally. Islam has become the largest minority-religion in Denmark and this has resulted in new forms of religious symbols in the Danish public and the construction of Muslim institutions such as burial places, educational institutions and prayer spaces. These religious symbols and institutions have been disputed since they were first established.