First, the community is fragmented with many inter-group tensions. The Muslim Parliament is far from representative, although its radical position is becoming more characteristic as young Muslims, embittered by racism and the problems of the inner city, turn to militant Islam.
Second, the resources of the Islamic world will eventually run out, being dependent to a large extent on oil. Many Muslim countries have not developed a manufacturing base and there is a great divide between the very few rich Muslims and the poor majority.
Thirdly, global communications and technology mean that how ever hard they try, Muslim leaders cannot keep secularisation at bay. People want satellite TV, pop music and videos, and obtain them in spite of restrictions.
Finally, there is a general acknowledgement of the Western value of freedom of speech and of conscience. Many do have the desire to be free.
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