Unveiling Raghad Al-Tikriti: The Face of Muslim Brotherhood’s Presence in Europe, Spotlight on England’s Role

Raghad Al-Tikriti stands out as a prominent figure within the Muslim Brotherhood, particularly in Europe, notably England. Her rise to prominence coincides with the group’s concerted effort to reshape its global image following significant scrutiny from Arab nations a decade ago.

In Western circles, Raghad Al-Tikriti is often portrayed as a symbol representing Arabs and Muslims in Britain, her persona marked by a departure from overt allegiance to her homeland’s struggles and a seeming disregard for the West’s actions in Iraq.

The Muslim Brotherhood has expanded its presence in Britain, establishing various entities such as charities, intellectual institutions, and even media outlets. One notable example is the opening of the group’s office in London’s Cricklewood neighborhood.

Among these entities is the Islamic Association in Britain, founded in 1997 by Kamal Helbawi and led by Raghad Al-Tikriti, hailing from Iraq.
But who exactly is Raghad Al-Tikriti? Raghad Al-Tikriti is a prominent female figure within the international Muslim Brotherhood. Born in Baghdad in 1970, she relocated with her family to Britain the same year.

Her father, Osama Al-Tikriti, was a former general observer of the Muslim Brotherhood in Iraq and a founding member of the Iraqi Islamic Party. Her brother, Anas Al-Tikriti, is also a notable figure within the Muslim Brotherhood and has held leadership positions in various organizations promoting intercultural dialogue.

Raghad’s integration into British society has earned her recognition as a key representative of Muslim women in Britain. She pursued higher education in computer science at a London university and embarked on social and political activism within the British Muslim community during her university years.

Over the years, Raghad has assumed numerous leadership roles within institutions representing the Muslim community and the Muslim Brotherhood in Britain and Europe. She is a prominent member of the European Forum of Muslim Women, the female arm of the Muslim Brotherhood in Europe.

Furthermore, Raghad played a pivotal role in the British Islamic Association, holding various leadership positions before being elected as its president in 2020, making her the first woman to lead such an Islamic institution in Britain.

While she relinquished her role as president in February 2022, Raghad continues to wield influence as the president of the Advisory Council, reflecting her enduring significance within the Muslim Brotherhood’s network in Britain and beyond.