In the sixth century, when mobile phone signals were nonexistent, it made sense for imams to use loudspeakers for the five-times-daily call to prayer. But in the 21st century, more discreet methods exist to remind believers to pray. Paul Baldwin, a former Catholic who renounced his faith, admits the Adhan would annoy him if he heard it regularly, but notes that in practice, few people in the UK experience it.
Danish Politician Sparks New Debate
Denmark's business minister warned that parts of the nation risk sounding like 'a suburb of Islamabad' and announced the government would reopen an investigation into outlawing the Adhan nationwide. Baldwin initially recoiled at the 'clumsy and slightly Nazi-sounding hyperbole' but acknowledged there are issues to consider.
Double Standards in Religious Noise
Baldwin points out that Christian church bells would be banned in Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan, or Somalia, where social cohesion is not a priority. Meanwhile, church bells have been banned in parts of Britain as a noise nuisance by local councils, even though many Brits love them. In Denmark, church bells are mandated by law. If there is legal precedent for silencing church bells, then silencing the Adhan seems less troublesome.
Social Cohesion: A One-Way Street?
In Pakistan, churches are not banned but are advised to remain silent to avoid 'unwanted attention' from extremists. Baldwin argues that social cohesion often feels one-sided. If the call to prayer annoys most locals, why shouldn't it be banned? That would be a social cohesion no-brainer, he suggests.
ECHR Hypocrisy
Britain, no longer in the EU, remains bound by the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), which protects the Muslim call to prayer. However, EU nations like France, Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands sidestep the ECHR by framing restrictions around public space management, secular integration, and decibel caps. Baldwin notes the irony: the UK is dictated to by rules of a club it left, while actual members drive a coach and four through those same rules.
Case-by-Case Approach
Baldwin suggests looking at UK mosques case by case. In parts of Blackburn, where he is from, the Adhan may not be heard by non-Muslims. But in areas where Muslims are a minority, good manners—what he calls social cohesion—should prevail.
