Unveiling Compensatory Mechanisms of Muslim Minority Groups in Hungary

Abstract

The growing population of Muslim consumers and their increasing economic influence have driven the expansion of Islamic goods and services across Europe. However, it is essential to examine how the scarcity of Islamic products and services—or the lack of an Islam-friendly environment, particularly for those living abroad—shapes the behaviors and preferences of Muslim minority groups. In an era of increasing secularization, understanding the complexities of religious practices is crucial, especially for business practitioners seeking to meet the diverse needs of Muslim consumers. This phenomenological study explores the underlying motivations behind compensatory mechanisms among Muslim minorities. Using a qualitative approach, twenty participants from Muslim communities in Hungary took part in in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and observational studies to examine their compensatory behaviors while living abroad. The analysis identified ten key themes, offering valuable insights into the diverse dimensions of compensatory mechanisms in the Islamic context and their implications for businesses and policymakers in evolving societies.