Positive Role Models

The question of how to deal with Muslim neighbours in European societies continues to be a burning issue as recent events have clearly shown. Throughout Europe people are struggling to define their relationship with Muslim communities here as well as with neighbouring Muslin countries. In Germany, too, everybody is discussing Islam. However, one of the problems of this debate both in Germany and Europe is that much time is spent discussing Islam but not very much talking to people who are Muslims and who represent Islam. In Germany we tend to focus on superficial issues such as an unduly one-sided debate and produces a stereotype image of Muslin women. But is it not important to hear also the views of those who are the subject of this debate? Muslin women in Germany and elsewhere - women with commitment, women who assume responsability in many areas of public life, in politics, business, the media and civil society - are entitled to contribute to this debate. The example set by these women can inspire others to follow in their footsteps.