This article investigates whether Western politicians' anti-Muslim rhetoric promotes radical attitudes among European Muslims. The study, conducted in Bosnia—a European democracy with a Muslim-majority population distinct from other European contexts—examines the impact of such rhetoric alone.

Experimental Study in Bosnia

Rhetorical attacks on Islam by Western politicians do not strengthen individuals' Muslim identity or increase animosity toward the West among Bosnian Muslims. Survey data (2,608 participants) also show these attacks fail to condone violence.

Pro-Muslim Rhetoric Effects

Conversely, positive rhetoric towards Islam increases好感for Western nations but does not alter individuals' Muslim identity or radical sympathies.

These findings suggest that anti-Muslim rhetoric alone is unlikely to radicalize European Muslims. This experimental evidence offers new insights into the sources of radicalization.