I think the reason why Europeans may not want to even mention the word "religion" is because it has been the target of hatred amongst many. I mean, name one war that does not have anything to do with religion.

Maybe I shouldn't have used the word "target" but people use religion as an excuse for their hatred. They want to feel high and mighty saying God is on their side as a way of trying to make people fear them. I feel so bad for the many prophets that have come to help teach humanity to be kind and humanity has twisted things around to fit their personal greed.
Reference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/interfaith-dialogues/1212-america-vs-europe.html

Reference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/showthread.php?t=1212
So to the subject of the Europeans. I don't think they hate the word "religion" per say, but I think they realize that it's a touchy subject that they'd rather keep out of the public and kept in the home.