in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, large numbers of muslims immigrated to western europe. by 2010, an estimated 44 million muslims were living in europe (6%), including an estimated 19 million in the eu (3.8%). they are projected to be 8% by 2030. they are often the subject of intense discussion and political controversy created by events such as terrorist attacks, the cartoons affair in denmark, debates over islamic dress, and ongoing support for populist right-wing parties that view muslims as a threat to european culture. such events have also fueled growing debate regarding the topic of islamophobia, attitudes toward muslims and the populist right.