Herausforderungen der institutionellen Beheimatung muslimischer Gemeinschaften in Deutschland

Abstract

The self-organization of Muslim communities in Germany began in the 20th century with the founding of the first mosque associations and small organizations. The sustained immigration of large numbers of Muslims from various countries created a need to establish a pluralistic religious infrastructure to address collective concerns. German constitutional law on religion provided—and continues to provide—favorable conditions for this. Thus, since the 1970s, larger organizations have emerged, initially mostly based on ethnic and denominational affiliations due to the history of immigration.  Practical implementation faces some difficulties. Many organizations operate on the basis of limited human and financial resources; volunteer work far outweighs paid staff.  Some organizations were established in close cooperation with institutions in the countries of origin of the immigrant generation. From a legal perspective, institutional ties between religious organizations and entities abroad are generally permissible. However, they can become problematic if they enable political influence from outside beyond religious concerns. Currently, with the generational shift, a gradual transition from foreign-oriented associations to domestic religious organizations is largely emerging. The state, which is open to religion, can support this development within the framework of legally permissible cooperation. The common goal should be the equal participation of the Muslim population.