The Facts
Officials from multiple countries have issued statements of condemnation in response to Salwan Momika, an Iraqi refugee who fled to Sweden, conducting a protest by stepping on a copy of the Quran and burning several of its pages.
Swedish police had given Momika a permit for the protest – which took place Wednesday, the first day of the Islamic holiday Eid al-Adha – in accordance with free-speech laws, though they’re now investigating it for inciting hatred.
The Spin
Narrative A
Most Western countries claim they respect different cultures and religions, but several European countries have recently seen an increase in anti-Islam incidents and haven’t done enough to stop them. More must be done by these governments to prevent the degradation of Islam or any religion.
Narrative B
Regardless of whether society agrees with Momika's message, Sweden is a democratic country and the police must ensure that people can use their constitutional right to demonstrate freedom of expression. Turkey must not base its decision over Sweden's NATO bid on this disgusting but unrepresentative incident.
Cynical narrative
While the burning of a copy of the Quran is obviously a grossly disrespectful act against Islam, there’s a double standard at play that can't be ignored: The international community is quick to condemn anti-Islamic acts — as it should — but remains silent over the mistreatment of Russians over the actions of their government.