German Minister: 'We have a problem with anti-Muslim sentiment in Germany'

Faeser stated at the German Islam Conference held today that a report published in June by the "Independent Group of Experts on Anti-Muslim Hatred" revealed that one in two people in the country approves of statements containing "anti-Muslim sentiment."

ADVISORY CENTERS TO BE INCREASED

Saying, "We also have a problem with anti-Muslim sentiment in Germany," Faeser noted that they assume attacks against Muslims are much higher than what official figures in the report show. In this context, Faeser noted that the facilities for documenting anti-Muslim sentiment and the number of advisory centers will be increased.

''ZERO TOLERANCE MUST BE SHOWN TO OTHER FORMS OF MISANTHROPY''

Stating that they will also increase opportunities to protect and support those affected by anti-Muslim sentiment, Faeser said, "The threat of many Muslims in Germany becoming victims of anti-Muslim attacks in daily life is real. This has terrible consequences in terms of a sense of security. We cannot accept this."

Emphasizing that every person in Germany has the right to live in safety, Faeser assessed, "Zero tolerance must be shown to anti-Muslim sentiment, right-wing extremism, antisemitism, racism, and other forms of misanthropy."

''RIGHT-WING EXTREMISM IS A GREAT DANGER FOR ALL OF US''

Emphasizing that society should not be divided, Faeser said, "Right-wing extremism continues to be one of the greatest threats to all of us and our democracy. We must take its threat potential very seriously."

Minister Faeser stated that the conflict in the Middle East should not be reflected on German streets, adding that they will do everything to prevent the conflict from turning into violence in their country.

Stating that how to combat anti-Muslim sentiment and antisemitism in the immigrant community are important issues, Faeser said that protecting Israel's security, combating antisemitism, and protecting Jews in the country is a matter of state for Germany.

Calling for a joint fight against antisemitism, Faeser stated that an atmosphere against Muslims should not be created under this pretext.

Minister Faeser also called on Muslim associations to visibly continue the fight against antisemitism.

This year's German Islam Conference was held under the title "Social peace and democratic cohesion: Combating antisemitism and anti-Muslim sentiment in times of social division."

Various panels will be held within the scope of the conference, which will last for two days.

The German Islam Conference was launched in 2006 with the aim of increasing cooperation and dialogue between the German government and Muslims.

News Source: AA