Maajid Nawaz is a notable British liberal activist and author of Pakistani descent, whose life has been marked by a profound transformation from being a former member of Hizb ut Tahrir to becoming a passionate advocate for liberalism, secularism, and human rights.
Nawaz's journey began with his association with Hizb ut Tahrir, a radical Islamist group, which ultimately led to his imprisonment in Egypt for a period of four years. This harrowing experience had a profound impact on his worldview, and upon his release, he renounced the ideology of Islamism, embarking on a new path that would see him dedicate his life to promoting liberal values and fighting for human rights.
In addition to his activism, Nawaz has also ventured into politics, running as a candidate for the Liberal Democrats in the 2015 UK General Elections.
Academically, Nawaz has a strong foundation, having graduated from the University of London with a degree in Law and Arabic, as well as completing his Masters degree in Political Theory from the London School of Economics.
As the founding chairman of the Quilliam think tank, Nawaz has played a pivotal role in shaping the organization's mission to challenge extremist ideologies and promote social cohesion. Moreover, he is a regular contributor to international publications, sharing his expertise and insights with a global audience.
Throughout his career, Nawaz has demonstrated unwavering commitment to his values, using his platform to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and to challenge discriminatory attitudes. His tireless efforts have earned him widespread recognition and respect, solidifying his position as a leading figure in the fight for human rights and social justice.