Spain has seen a significant increase in its Muslim population in the last 30 years, according to Mohamed Ajana, the Secretary of the Islamic Commission of Spain. Ajana stated that the number of Muslims living in Spain has increased tenfold, exceeding 2.5 million people. Unofficial figures suggest that the actual number of Muslims in Spain may be closer to 3 million.
Ajana pointed out that the Muslim population in Spain is no longer just made up of immigrants, as they now have an important place among Spanish citizens. More than one million Muslims in Spain are Spanish citizens, some of them are immigrants, and others are of Spanish origin.
The majority of Muslims living in Spain come from Morocco, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Senegal, and Algeria, and they are concentrated in industrialized regions such as Catalonia, Valencia, Andalusia, and Madrid.
According to Ajana, there are currently 53 Islamic federations serving the Muslim community in Spain, and approximately 2,000 mosques. However, Muslims face significant difficulties in obtaining permits and licenses for the construction of mosques.
While the growing Muslim population in Spain is a cause for celebration for some, others are concerned about the increasing incidents of Islamic terrorism in European countries. Nevertheless, the Secretary of the Islamic Commission of Spain hopes that the Muslim community in Spain can continue to integrate and contribute to Spanish society.
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