A European Exception? Political Islam and Radical Islamism in Portugal

The main findings of this chapter suggest that Portugal is a peculiar case in the context of Western Europe. Jihadist attacks have never taken place there. There is no evidence pointing to interference by other states, nor by Islamist groups. There is also no known evidence of funding of mosques by problematic countries. However, there are signs of some concern. The first is the possible transformation of the Muslim community into a more substantial and less integrated reality, which increases the likelihood of radicalisation. The second is related with the international geopolitical environment in the South Mediterranean, that may turn unfavourable in the medium or long term. The third relates to jihadist groups operating in former colonial territories, which can project themselves into Portugal.