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Al-Qaradaghi Warns of German Bill Threatening Freedom of Expression and Targeting Palestinian Support
Sheikh Dr. Ali Al-Qaradaghi, President of the International Union of Muslim Scholars, has urged the German community, including conscientious citizens and human rights organizations, to take a firm stand against a new bill currently being debated in the German parliament under the title "Law to Protect Jewish Life."
Expressing deep concern over recent legislation supporting Israel and influencing public opinion, Sheikh Al-Qaradaghi emphasized that freedom of opinion and expression is a fundamental part of human dignity. He noted that despite the bill’s title, it raises serious concerns among human rights defenders and civil liberties advocates, who believe it aims to target pro-Palestinian activism, particularly peaceful boycott movements like the BDS movement.
According to media reports, Germany's ruling and opposition parties have reached an agreement on the draft bill, which will soon be presented to the Bundestag for a vote.
Many observers believe the bill seeks to intensify punitive measures against anti-Israel voices under the guise of "protecting the Jewish community," which could negatively impact individuals and communities within Germany.
The proposed law includes several troubling provisions:
Amendments to Criminal, Residency, and Citizenship Laws: These changes would allow for the revocation of residency and citizenship from individuals deemed “anti-Israel,” affecting immigrants and left-wing activists.
Ban on Anti-Israel Institutions: The law grants broad powers to ban any institution advocating for a boycott of Israel or deemed hostile to it.
Increased Scrutiny of Cultural and Artistic Events: This includes cutting funding to cultural activities considered anti-Semitic.
Penalties in Schools and Universities: Schools and universities would have the authority to take punitive action against students deemed anti-Semitic.
In his closing remarks, Sheikh Al-Qaradaghi stressed the importance of carefully examining this law, warning of its potential risks to freedom of expression and fundamental rights, which are pillars of civilized societies.
He called upon the Muslim community and human rights advocates worldwide to raise awareness about this bill's implications and to defend individuals' right to peacefully support humanitarian causes, including the Palestinian cause.
Source: IUMS + Social Media