The Radical Middle Way (RMW) is a Muslim grassroots movement dedicated to making mainstream Islam relevant to young British Muslims.

Its main aim is articulating an understanding of Islam that is dynamic, proactive and relevant.

Managed by young Muslims

Started in 2005, it is funded mainly by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the UK's Department for Communities and Local Government. The project is managed by young British Muslims themselves, in partnership with various Islamic organisations.

The  funding is vital to their efforts but RMW is keen to point out that "We have a rigorously negotiated 'terms of reference' with our funders that guarantees the independence of participating scholars".   

Its message to supporters also points out that this independence ensures "that all of our activities are undertaken in the best interests of Muslim communities."

Bringing together Muslim scholars

It operates in the UK and for the past three years RMW has been bringing together some of the leading authoritative and independent Muslim scholars from across the world to talk to young British Muslims.

One of the most important areas they discuss  is what it means to be young, British and Muslim. It  tries to combat ignorance by arguing  for the ‘middle way’ amongst the mainstream Muslim community. 

RMW says that it is critical is to ensure that effective debate is lead by qualified scholars. It is also about challenging extremist views and providing alternatives, and changing the minds of young Muslims seduced by the rhetoric of extremism and radicalisation.

Not only do they get their messages out via their website but they have embraced the latest technology like MP3s, podcasts, videos, Youtube etc.

Distinguished scholar

One of their distinguished scholars, Shayk Abdallah Bin Bayyan has used the RMW website to answer difficult questions from young visitors ranging from education, sharia law, forgiveness and music and mainstream Muslim thought.

RMW has held nearly 15 major tours so far, inviting scholars to address their young Muslim audiences – 60,000 in all and female as well as male.

The scholars come from all over the world, from the US to Egypt and the Yemen, from Canada to Bosnia and Germany.

This year they are running a series of monthly roadshows with leading scholars, thinkers and Muslim personalities who would engage in debates, seminars, discussions and face-to-face dialogue with our target audience.

Walkabouts

They plan walkabouts, 'kebab shop' discussions and roundtables with voluntary sector organisations  -  youth and women’s groups being a priority.

Since its launch in 2005, RMW has worked with dozens of organisations and groups across the UK. Their key partners and supporters include the Federation of Student Islamic Societies, the Young Muslims Organisation, Q-News, Britain's leading Muslim magazine and Mahabba Unlimited which organises cultural, intellectual, spiritual and social events and programmes.

See our preventing and resolving conflict pages for more about FCO policy.