Mutual Understanding for an Improved Co-Existence
What were your experiences with organised events on the topic of Islam after September 11th?
Hamideh Mohagheghi: On the whole my experiences were positive. After the attacks there was a huge demand for presentations on the theme of Islam. Many people were very interested in learning more and really wanted to examine the topic in depth. Of course, there were also people who came citing verses from the Koran about war and violence. They just wanted to have us confirm that Islam is really a hostile and violence-promoting religion.
Although the number of activities has decreased significantly now that a year has gone by, there is still a certain continuity. In some areas Muslims and non-Muslims have gotten closer to one another. Some Germans now have a better understanding of Muslims' fears. Because most Muslims are afraid of any form of extremist group.
On the German and Christian side, the representation of the Muslims in the dialogue is often criticized. This is based on the assumption that the Central Council, Islamic Council and other associations only speak for a very small minority of Muslims in Germany. What is your opinion?
Mohagheghi: This is an old accusation. In Germany experience has shown that Muslims do not organise themselves in the same way that Christians do. On the other hand: when one lives here as a Muslim and enters into a dialogue with Christians, one soon notices that the Catholic Church, for example, does not speak for all Catholics.
It is of course true that the Central Council and the Islamic Council do not represent the majority of Muslims. Nevertheless, many Muslims stand behind these institutions, even if they are not organised as a part of them.
But I believe that the dialogue must run on two tracks: for one thing, as a dialog among experts. But even more importantly, as a dialogue on the level of schools and neighborhoods. A day-to-day dialogue. Better put: mutual understanding for better coexistence. For this, no organizations are required. After September 11th I realized how important this everyday dialogue is.
There are voices that seek to cut certain Islamic groupings in Germany out of the dialogue, for example Milli Görüs. How do you feel about this?
With groups that are really extremist, not much can be accomplished by means of dialogue. With groups whose extremist activities have not actually been demonstrated, dialogue is urgently required. Excluding such groups only leads to greater speechlessness and deepens the existing rift.
A special effort should be made to enter into a constructive discussion and to cooperate with Muslim groups that have a high potential for attracting young people. This represents a chance to give the young Muslims in this country a feeling of "belonging", so that they feel responsible for shaping our peaceful coexistence.
Interview: Mona Naggar
Translation from German: Jennifer Taylor-Gaida
© Qantara.de 2003
Hamideh Mohagheghi is adviser on interreligious dialogue and member of the board of directors of HUDA e.V. for Muslim women.