"Look at all the misery in the Middle East for example. All these countries have Islam in common, and far too few dare to criticize Islam as an ideology, and what it's doing to these countries," the 68-year-old told the paper.

"I know I might get punched in the face for saying these things, but my conviction is that less religion in the world would be better."

Ulvaeus, who caused controversy earlier this year for making insensitive comments about the Boston Marathon disaster, was keen to point out his views weren't targeted towards a particular faith or people who practice religion. ...