Youth Socialists of SPD Berlin Ditch "Islamism," Opt for "Religiously-Based Extremism" Instead
Berlin's Youthful Socialists Reject Labeling as 'Islamism' - Anti-Islamism stance challenged by Berlin Young Socialists
The Young Socialists (Jusos) in Berlin are ditching the term "Islamism" and aiming to use "religiously-based extremism" moving forward, shunning any specific religious connotation. The youth organization's Berlin branch passed a resolution last Saturday, inciting debates online.
This resolution emphasizes the problematic association between Islam and Islamism, arguing that it paints Islam itself in a negative light. By stigmatizing an entire religion, individuals perceived as Muslims face constant pressure to distance themselves from extremist groups such as Hamas or IS, which fuels anti-Muslim racism.
Criticism towards Jusos' approach came from Islamism researcher Susanne Schröter, who accused the organization of avoiding discussions about Islamic extremism. She contends that it's impossible to separate Islam from extremist views and actions.
Berlin's Juso co-chair, Svenja Diedrich, dismissed the ensuing controversy as mere overreaction. The resolution, backed by a broad majority, aims to minimize discrimination within the organization, Diedrich explained to the German Press Agency. Far from a ban, she clarified, members are free to express their opinions on the matter.
The resolution calls for the fight against extremism rooted in religion but with no "racist narratives and stigmatization." In place of bearing the weight of the "Islamism" label, the organization will use the term "religiously-based extremism" in the future, hoping to forestall prejudices against Islam.
The Federal Agency for Civic Education explains that Islamism aspires to establish an Islamic "theocracy" with strict regulations based on Islamic law (Sharia). This contrasts with principles such as popular sovereignty, separation of church and state, freedom of expression, and equal rights that empower democratic societies.
The Federal Ministry of the Interior defines Islamism as a form of extremism that seeks to dismantle Germany's democratic order using Islamic teachings, contradicting the core values enshrined in the Basic Law.
- Jusos
- Religiously-Based Extremism
- Term
- SPD
- Berlin
- Young Adults
- Muslims
- Islamism
- Hamas
- IS
The decision to alter terminology can be driven by various factors:
- Avoiding Stigmatization: Using neutral terms can help prevent discriminatory attitudes towards Muslim communities. Institutions and governing bodies may strive to address extremism without exacerbating anti-Muslim sentiments or biases.
- Inclusivity and Precision: Using "religiously-based extremism" as a broader term could make the discussion more inclusive and comprehensive, encompassing various religious extremist ideologies.
- Political Sensitivity: The shift to a more general term might reflect an attempt to navigate the intricate political landscape where accusations of Islamophobia are frequent. This adjustment could be part of broader strategies aimed at fostering dialogue among diverse groups and upholding social harmony.
The Jusos, the youth organization of SPD Berlin, have chosen to move away from the term "Islamism" and instead adopt "religiously-based extremism." This decision is aimed at minimizing discrimination within the organization, as some argue that the term "Islamism" can stigmatize an entire religion and fuel anti-Muslim racism. However, critics like Susanne Schröter contend that it's impossible to separate Islam from extremist views and actions. The change in terminology reflects a political sensitivity, possibly part of broader strategies aimed at fostering dialogue among diverse groups and upholding social harmony.
