We therefore require teacher training courses in the Islamic religion, as well as reliable Islamic partners with whom we can discuss these difficult issues.
Our constitution is based on cooperation in a spirit of trust between the state and religious communities. Islam is not structured like a church. That is why we need a new form of reliable, institutional cooperation with Muslims in Germany. Based on our constitution, we need rules which take into account the legitimate interests of our Muslim citizens.
What we must insist on, also in the interests of all children living here, is that children be educated in state and private schools in accordance with the basic values enshrined in our constitution, also in religious education.
XIII.
I have already mentioned that the basic right to asylum, as it was newly formulated a few years ago, should not be called into question.
However, the current law has resulted time and again in many individual cases in decisions which are even regarded as wrong and unjustifiable by many of those who, in principle, are in favor of a restrictive asylum policy. I receive many letters in which members of the Bundestag and employers, school classes, congregations and committed citizens speak out against the deportation of individual refugees. I can often understand why.
In most cases, however, it turns out that these people cannot be helped. They cannot stay here because it would contravene prevailing law.
Perhaps the authorities need greater leeway in making decisions so that they can better take into account the special circumstances in individual cases. Those who would like to see this, too, must call for the appropriate amendments in the Bundestag. They would have my sympathy.
XIV.
We need renewed joint efforts to ensure that we can all live together in harmony in our country. We must revise our thinking in all areas of society and of political and state action.
We must acknowledge reality if we want to shape it successfully – without fear and without illusions. Successful integration is in our own vital interests. It mobilizes forces which we need for a prosperous future.
Let us clearly define our interests and goals.
Let us decide how we want to shape integration.
Let us set realistic goals.
Education and once more education – that is the fundamental prerequisite for any integration. Integration must be a key component in all education policies.
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