Salwan Momika, The Individual who Burned the Quran and Triggered Global Controversy

Iraqi Refugee Salwan Momika’s Controversial Actions in Sweden

Salwan Momika, an Iraqi refugee in Sweden, made headlines worldwide due to his provocative demonstrations involving the burning of the Koran. The 38-year-old man, with a turbulent past, ignited outrage in June 2023 when he desecrated the Islamic holy book by stomping on it, wrapping it in bacon, setting some pages on fire, and kicking it like a football. Alongside his co-protester Salwan Najem, Momika organized several similar protests, including one outside Iraq’s embassy in Stockholm where he refrained from burning the Koran.

International Backlash and Diplomatic Fallout

The Swedish government’s decision to allow Momika’s demonstrations caused significant diplomatic tensions. Iraq responded by expelling Sweden’s ambassador and revoking the operating license of telecom giant Ericsson in the country. Momika, defiant in the face of opposing protesters, aimed to raise awareness in Swedish society about what he perceived as the dangers of the Koran. His actions led to condemnations from various countries, with Turkey blocking Sweden’s NATO membership at one point.

Momika’s Checkered Past and Legal Troubles

Before relocating to Sweden in 2018, Momika had a controversial political history in Iraq. He was associated with a Christian armed faction during the conflict against the Islamic State group, had conflicts with influential Christian paramilitaries, and was briefly detained. In 2019, he participated in anti-corruption protests in Iraq, which were met with a violent crackdown by authorities. In August 2024, Momika faced charges of inciting hatred against an ethnic group, but the case was dropped following his untimely death.

Threats and Asylum Seeker Status

Despite receiving death threats for his actions, Momika continued his protests, which were livestreamed on social media platforms. While he had police protection during public demonstrations and court appearances, he was reportedly not protected at home. In March 2024, Momika left Sweden to seek asylum in Norway, criticizing Sweden’s perceived lack of freedom of expression and human rights protection. However, he was deported back to Sweden shortly afterward. Momika had expressed aspirations to enter politics and run for a parliamentary seat representing the Sweden Democrats, although the party distanced itself from his controversial actions.

In conclusion, Salwan Momika’s actions in Sweden sparked a global debate on freedom of speech, religion, and the limits of protest. His untimely death cut short a legal battle and political ambitions, leaving behind a complex legacy of activism and controversy.