News

The World Muslim Communities Council (TWMCC) held an online lecture, titled "Islam and Muslims in the Heart of the Balkans: The Story of the Bosniak People," presented by Dr. Hajrudin Balić, Professor at the Faculty of Islamic Studies in Novi Pazar, Serbia, within the Council's series of lectures.

During the lecture, Balić highlighted the prominent role of the Bosniak people in Serbia and the wider Balkan region, emphasising that they are among the native European ethnic groups, and that Islam has been present in the region since the 15th century.

He pointed out that Islamic institutions in Serbia are well-established and active in society, and that Muslims—particularly the Bosniaks—constitute an important component of the national fabric. He noted that the number of Muslims in Serbia exceeds 500,000, the majority of whom are Bosniaks.

He discussed the presence of Bosniaks in several Balkan countries, including: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, Croatia, Kosovo, Slovenia, and Albania.

He clarified that the Bosniaks embraced Islam voluntarily and peacefully, not through wars or conflicts, which has contributed to their peaceful coexistence with other peoples.

Regarding their relationship with the Islamic world and the West, he emphasised that the Bosniaks serve as a civilisational and cultural bridge. They understand the mindset of Western societies while preserving their Islamic and cultural values, making them a conduit for dialogue and mutual understanding.

He also referred to the presence of the Islamic Sheikhdom in Serbia, which plays a central role in representing Muslims and strengthening their relationship with the Serbian state, affirming that the relationship between Muslims and the government is positive and stable.