DDHK News, Germany - The German Minister of Home Affairs, Thomas de Maiziere, invited representatives of Islamic organizations in his country to discuss the agenda of the Islamic Conference which is held every year. The meeting on Monday (27/01) agreed to prepare a new concept until March. Last year's Islamic conference was less successful and ended in disagreement.
Chairman of the German Muslim Council, Aiman Mazyek, said he was optimistic about the meeting. "In my opinion, there is reason for us to be optimistic," Mazyek was quoted as saying on the website Deutsche Welle.
Minister of Home Affairs De Maiziere explained that what was discussed was the structure, objectives and theme of this year's Islamic Conference. "We have found a good way of working, to jointly build solidarity in social life," he said.
The last Islamic conference last year ended in disagreement, after the then Minister of the Interior, Hans-Peter Friedrich, insisted on prioritizing the themes of security and radicalism. When appointed as the new Minister of Home Affairs, De Maiziere promised to find a new concept for the Islamic Conference.
Welfare and comfort in worship
Chairman of the Muslim Council, Aiman Mayzek, said that what needs to be discussed in the Islamic Conference is the welfare and comfort of Muslim citizens in Germany in carrying out their prayers. Mayzek added that the issue of security for places of worship and the "war against all forms of radicalism" is the main focus of the work of the Muslim Council, but this will be discussed in other forums.
Minister of Home Affairs Thomas de Maiziere explained that the issues to be discussed include how to provide prayer rooms in public offices. The interests of Muslim citizens need to be taken into account by government agencies, the police, and the military. "Muslims in Germany also need to have social assistance agencies like Christian organizations," he said.
The Green Party welcomed the initiative of Minister of Home Affairs De Maiziere. "It would be great if the Home Minister was looking for a new concept for the Islamic Conference," said Volker Beck of the Green Party. He reminded that Muslims must have a place in German society.
Underrepresented
Member of parliament from Die Linke (Left Party) Sevim Dagdelen explained, the Islamic Conference has not represented the majority of German Muslims. Because the invited organizations only represent about 15 percent of Muslims in Germany. Supposedly, more groups were involved.
Interior Minister De Maiziere explained that one of the themes that had not been discussed at Monday's meeting was the issue of Islamophobia or excessive fear of Muslims. "We want the lives of Muslims to be better, without hiding the various problems that exist," he said. (afp / dpa / dw.de). *
