Germany’s Shift on Islam Policy Sparks Fear Among Muslim Communities
Germany’s approach to Islam policy is shifting under the current centre-right coalition. Recent moves by the government have raised concerns among the country’s six million Muslims. Instead of focusing on integration and dialogue, officials now prioritise security and surveillance measures.
The changes come as hostility towards Muslims grows, fuelled by debates on migration and extremism. Many in the community now feel increasingly targeted by state policies.
Between 2020 and 2023, the German Islam Conference played a key role in promoting integration and religious freedom. Meetings in Berlin and other major cities brought together policymakers and Muslim organisations to tackle extremism and encourage participation in society. However, under the new government, the conference has lost prominence, with some advisors even pushing for its complete abolition.
The Interior Ministry has taken a harder line, appointing figures to its advisory council who rarely consider the everyday lives of Muslims. Instead, the focus has narrowed to ‘political Islam’, a loosely defined term that critics argue unfairly labels many as potential threats. This shift has left Muslim communities feeling alienated, especially as racist debates over migration and Islamism intensify.
Recent decisions have deepened these concerns. The ministry facilitated the entry of Taliban representatives into Germany to assist with deportations to Afghanistan. Meanwhile, the Family Ministry announced plans to vet civil society groups receiving ‘Living Democracy’ funding through the domestic intelligence agency. Experts warn that combating extremism effectively requires cooperation with Muslim actors—not treating nearly all forms of Islam as dangerous.
The government’s current stance risks undermining years of progress in fostering trust and dialogue. Many Muslims now fear being unfairly associated with security risks rather than seen as part of German society.
The government’s focus on security over engagement has left Muslim communities anxious about their place in Germany. With policies increasingly centred on surveillance and vague definitions of extremism, the space for constructive dialogue has shrunk. The long-term impact on integration efforts and social cohesion remains uncertain.
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