In a candid and powerful discussion with RAIR Foundation USA, Edwin Wagensveld, leader of the Dutch branch of Pegida (Patriotic Europeans Against the Islamisation of the West), opened up about the assassination of Salwan Momika, his own struggles as a vocal critic of Islam, and the grave consequences of Europe’s capitulation to Islamic ideologies.
Living Under Constant Threat
Edwin Wagensveld, like so many outspoken critics of Islam, faces a daily reality marked by threats, state persecution, and societal backlash. Wagensveld has been arrested more than 20 times for his lawful protests, including wearing a pig-shaped hat during a rally. These seemingly trivial actions have triggered legal action, highlighting the lengths to which authorities will go to suppress dissent.
Following the assassination of Salwan Momika, Wagensveld’s life has grown even more precarious. Reflecting on the murder, he stated, “Every criticism of Islam is met with either violence from jihadis or punishment from the state. Our governments fear the backlash of Muslim violence more than they value freedom of speech.”
A Culture of Fear and Suppression
The assassination of Salwan Momika has intensified concerns about the suppression of free speech in Europe. Momika, who gained global attention for his Quran-burning protests, was gunned down at a secret address. Authorities suspect that his live TikTok broadcasts may have inadvertently revealed his location to his killer. Despite the known threats to his life, Momika was left without adequate protection.
“The state’s failure to protect Momika—and others like him—is a clear signal,” Wagensveld said. “Governments are willing to sacrifice their own citizens to avoid offending Islamic sensitivities.” […]
— Read More: rairfoundation.com
