Berlin coalition to discuss constitutional protections against Islamophobia

The Muslim community has been grappling with the increase of Islamophobia in the EU, including Germany– where physical attacks against Muslims and vandalism against mosques persist.

German parliamentary leader Raed Saleh is pushing for the inclusion of anti-Islamophobia laws into the state constitution. Saleh, who is the leader of the Social Democratic Party, emphasized the need for Germany to have its constitution forcefully showcase the country’s willingness and commitment to fight against antisemitism, Islamophobia, and racism. The topic is set to be discussed in a study commission planned by the ‘black-red’ (CDU-SPD) coalition.

“I can well imagine us in Berlin saying that in our diverse city, we will enshrine the fight against Antisemitism, the fight against Islamophobia and against racism in the constitution. We will not tolerate Antisemitism in our city. And anyone who [crosses the line] will have to deal with a robust democracy… We don’t tolerate Islamophobia. We don’t tolerate racism.” Said Saleh.

The remarks come amid a rapid and alarming increase in Islamophobic attacks in Germany and much of Europe, with reports indicating a surge in actions targeting Muslims and Islamic institutions like mosques.

The Muslim community in Germany and Europe at large has in recent years grappled with Islamophobia coming not only from ordinary citizens but also from elected politicians and other people in positions of authority.

According to recent converging reports, police recorded 258 Islamophobic crimes during the first half of 2023. Between January and June last year, more than a dozen mosques witnessed acts of Islamophobia. Muslims have also experienced physical attacks or verbal harassment on the street or in other public places throughout Germany, and 17 people have been said to have sustained injuries in such anti-Islam acts.

Source: The Berliner