Across Europe, the public celebration of Ramadan has become a focal point for cultural and political tension. From Belgium to Germany, the increasing visibility of Islamic rituals in public spaces, supported by municipal authorities, has led to a series of confrontations.
In Zele, Belgium, the Eyyüp El-Ensari Mosque initiated the hanging of festive Ramadan lights in Zwaanstraat with the approval of the municipality. According to the mosque board, the lighting provides extra connection during Ramadan. The mosque plans to expand the project even further next year.
