Murder In Amsterdam

In Ian Buruma's book, Murder In Amsterdam, an important question of identity is raised. As the Netherlands becomes a home to more and more immigrants, many of whom practice Islam, the government has a difficult dilemma to face: what is their priority. Do they embrace the change that a growing population of immigrants brings to the table, or do they strive to uphold the traditions and culture that have made Holland what it is today? However, as these two factions expand, they are bound to clash, and Theo van Gogh's assassination is an example of it. Theo van Gogh had constantly expressed concerns over Muslims immigrating to the Netherlands, as he felt they were destroying the Dutch way of life. Mohammed Bouyeri, on the other hand, is a Muslim that had recently changed his beliefs to jihadism, and felt his religious beliefs being threatened by free speakers like van Gogh, who spoke constantly of the evils of Islam. As a result of their differing opinions violence ensued, with van Gogh ultimately losing his life. Buruma's final line summarizes this growing phenomenon perfectly: "What happened in this small corner of northwestern Europe could happen anywhere, as long as young men and women feel that death is their only way home" (262). If further acts of violence are to be prevented, we must establish basic human rights, such as the freedom of speech, that cannot be violated. When you live in a country, you accept its laws, and you must understand that these laws supersede the laws of your religion, so long as you are choosing to remain in that country. Once this understanding is reached in Holland, the identity gap can be bridged, and the country can once again be united.