The rise of violence against places of worship in Europe: Trends,dynamics,and challenges for social cohesion

Abstract

The PARTES project examines rising violence against places of worship in Europe, driven by terrorism, hate crimes, vandalism, and cyber-attacks. Between 2013 and 2023, these incidents grew in diversity and scope, involving both right-wing and jihadist groups. The current study highlights how radicalization and hate speech intensify inter-religious tensions and violence. Despite protective measures by European states, such as surveillance, these strategies remain insufficient, calling for more inclusive, participatory approaches involving law enforcement and religious communities. The project categorizes different types of attacks and stresses the growing threat of ideological violence, particularly online. It also highlights the need to combat misinformation and regulating hate speech, while promoting inter-community dialogue for peaceful coexistence. The findings advocate for a comprehensive approach that combines security, education, and interfaith collaboration. Future research should focus on digital threats, the effectiveness of protection systems, and the role of inter-religious dialogue in fostering cooperation.