Introduction

As the Muslim population continues to grow and expand worldwide in the 21st century, it is more important than ever that we understand our Muslim neighbors and their faith. To that end, this BYU-sponsored conference provided an intensive yet accessible introduction to key aspects of Islam and made clear why such information is relevant, even essential, for informed citizenship today

Conference Highlights

The Islamic World Today Conference offered a deep look into the challenges and opportunities facing Muslims around the world and in the West. Speakers explored topics like Islamophobia, cultural integration, and the ways Muslim communities navigate life in societies that often misunderstand them. Asma Afsaruddin highlighted rising anti-Muslim sentiment in multiple countries, while Sherman Jackson emphasized the diversity of American Muslims and how misconceptions shape public perception. Throughout the conference, discussions showed how religion, culture, and social life intersect in complex ways, reminding participants that Muslims are not a monolith but a diverse, vibrant community.

Other sessions focused on women in Islam, political participation in Muslim-majority countries, and interpretations of the Qur’an and Hadith. Scholars shared how women balance faith and social expectations, how Muslims engage with politics differently across countries, and how interpretations of sacred texts vary depending on culture and context. The conference concluded with a call for more dialogue, education, and interfaith understanding, highlighting the importance of building bridges and fostering respect for Islamic traditions in today’s world.