From Mosques to Social Media: the Increasing Role of Content Creators in the Hungarian Islamic Cyberspace

Abstract This article examines the evolving landscape of the Hungarian-language Islamic cyberspace, focusing on the shifting roles of state-recognised Muslim organisations and independent Muslim content creators. By applying certain elements of netnography with this help of semi-structured interviews, this study analyses how Islamic institutions as well as Muslim content creators use social media to cultivate parasocial relationships, negotiate religious authority, address socially sensitive issues such as Christmas celebrations and LGBTQ identities, and shape perceptions of Islam within a politically hostile environment. Findings show that while institutional organisations maintain cautious, inward-looking communication, content creators embody a more outward-oriented, dialogical, and often more inclusive approach. The article contributes to the literature by offering the first in-depth exploration of a Central European Muslim online environment and highlights how digital platforms are reshaping religious authority, identity, and community formation among Hungarian- speaking Muslims.