World Assembly of Muslim Youth

The World Assembly of Muslim Youth (WAMY) is an international Islamic organization founded in 1972 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with the aim of preserving the identity of Muslim youth and addressing their challenges in modern society. It operates globally through satellite chapters in 31 countries and is affiliated with over 196 Muslim youth groups across five continents. WAMY organizes conferences, workshops, football tournaments, and scout camps for Muslim youth, particularly in Europe, and publishes materials to introduce Islam to non-Muslims.

The organization was co-founded by Kamal Helwabi, a member of the Muslim Brotherhood, and Abdullah bin Laden, nephew of Osama bin Laden. WAMY has historically been closely linked with groups like the Muslim World League (MWL), sharing similar objectives and funding sources, primarily from Saudi Arabia. This connection has led to associations with promoting strict Wahhabi interpretations of Islam.

WAMY's activities have faced criticism, including allegations of glorifying violence against Israelis in its publications and spreading anti-Semitic content. In 2004, U.S. authorities raided WAMY's office in Virginia, seizing computers and arresting a volunteer on immigration charges. The organization denies any ties to terrorism. Additionally, its branches in countries like Albania and India have faced scrutiny for suspected links to extremist activities.

Overall, WAMY aims to educate Muslim youth, promote interfaith dialogue, and introduce Islam to non-Muslims while addressing societal challenges faced by young Muslims worldwide.