Conflicting Islamic Governmentality

Abstract In October 2021, Imam Mohamed Toujgani, a Moroccan who had resided in Belgium for nearly 40 years, was banned from the Schengen area for a decade. He was accused of espousing anti-Semitic views and having ties to Moroccan intelligence, posing a threat to societal harmony. This article critically examines the ban by putting it within the context of Europe’s securitisation of Islam. It explores Toujgani’s theological and social views, highlighting his promotion of dual belonging – a notion supported by the works of scholars such as Thijl Sunier on Islam in Europe. Employing Michel Pêcheux’s relational discursive approach, this study argues that Toujgani’s deportation risks deepening social divisions, potentially escalating conflicts rather than mitigating them.