Integration Expert Slams Vienna's Inaction on Religion in Schools

Integration expert Ahmad Mansour has sharply criticized the city of Vienna's handling of integration issues, particularly concerning religion in state schools. "I think the city of Vienna doesn't do anything at all" when faced with problems, Mansour stated, accusing "left-wing actors" in the city of consistently blocking necessary discussions. He argues for a crucial debate on "how much religion should be allowed in state schools."

Mansour highlighted the importance of integration courses for refugees, describing them as "great and necessary" for providing orientation and answering questions about societal expectations. He noted that during his own arrival in Germany 21 years ago, such courses were unavailable, leaving him feeling uncertain. He stressed that these courses must address sensitive topics like sexuality, religious freedom, and antisemitism, allowing for open discussion and even disagreement. Mansour pointed out that individuals sometimes defend antisemitic remarks as freedom of speech or believe religious freedom permits any practice, necessitating a firm response in educational settings.

Regarding religious freedom, Mansour supports Austria's ban on headscarves for children under 14. He believes the perception that religious freedom has no limits is misguided, stating, "Religious freedom is not a one-way street." He considers the ban "absolutely correct," arguing that mandatory headscarves for children lack theological justification and can negatively impact a seven-year-old's developing sense of self. Mansour also addressed the issue of Ramadan fasting in schools, particularly during summer months when students can become dehydrated. He views strict fasting for children as theologically unjustifiable and prioritizes child welfare.

Mansour expressed concern over a recent survey indicating that Viennese youth are becoming more religious, which he interprets as becoming more radical. He cited a statistic where 41 percent of respondents consider Sharia law more important than state laws, signaling a worrying trend that requires direct confrontation within the educational system. He emphasized that religious freedom should also encompass the right to change one's religion or to be non-religious, contrasting this with instances where Muslim students pressure peers who do not pray, which he labels as "pressure" and "bullying."