Abstract

KHALID RHAZZALI, Mohammed. Religious instances and negotiation of difference: Muslims in Italian prisons. Soc. relig. [online]. 2017, vol.27, n.48, pp.261-286. ISSN 1853-7081.

Islam is the second religion after Catholicism among detainees in Italian prisons. Because of the number of Muslims and the importance of Islamic religion and symbols upheld by Muslims in their everyday ritual practice in jail, the issue of freedom of worship and thus of religious pluralism has become a question of both penitentiary management and public policy. Through the analysis of space, time and actors, this article explores the complex dynamics arising in prison vis-à-vis Islam, together with the articulation of different dimensions of religiosity, and the ways in which Muslims' demands are negotiated. Furthermore, it addresses the current debated issue concerning the possibility that prisons may play an important role in the diffusion of radical Islamism.

Keywords : Prison; Islam; Religions; Italy.