It is only after 1960´s immigration has been framed negatively by Western European countries. A brief answer to the question why the view towards the immigrants changed in 1960´s could be the dissolution of the Eastern Block which caused enormous demographic changes which had as a consequence serious impact on socioeconomic level. The mobilization of a great mass of people lead European national states to ethnicise their migration policies in a way that encourage the arrival of immigrants from the simiral ethnic background, in order to achieve, a re-homogenization in the Post- Communist era. Immigrants of different cultural background rather that the majority´s were disapproved. Specifically, on the German example, immigration inflow was considered a necessity for the rebuilt of a dilapidated Germany. Germany failed on the re-patriation process of the „guest process“ which ended being permanent residents in the host country. It is a considerably recent attempt for the German national authorities to move integration to a policy concern and establish a new civil and social identidy for all citizens. Religious and cultural identidy are most then ever important in postmodern history of Germany. Frankfurt’s Interfaith Council (Rat der Religionen) , created on April 1. 2009, acts cooperatively with the local authorities of the city of Frankfurt. The purpose of the Council is the promotion of religion by the dialogue between them.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Immigration in Germany
3. The Interfaith Council in Frankfurt
3.1 § 2 Purpose and Objectives
3.1.1 First
3.1.2 Second
Objectives and Topics
The essay explores the intersection of immigration, societal integration, and religion in Germany, specifically analyzing the role of the "Interfaith Council" in Frankfurt/Main as a mechanism for promoting peaceful coexistence and interreligious dialogue in a modern, secular society.
- Historical context of immigration and labor migration in Germany.
- Challenges of multiculturalism and integration policies.
- The role of civil society organizations in fostering religious understanding.
- The relationship between identity, religion, and social cohesion.
Excerpt from the book
The Interfaith Council in Frankfurt
Frankfurt’s Interfaith Council (Rat der Religionen), created on April 1. 2009, acts cooperatively with the local authorities of the city of Frankfurt. The Council counts 23 members, all are representative of their religious communities (Gemeinde). More precisely, the 23 members are representing 9 religious communities: Christians, Judishs, Muslims, Budhists, Hindus, Sihks, Bahais, Ahmadiyya Muslims and Mormons.
The purpose and the objectives of the Council as they are declared in the statement of its creation are:
§ 2 Purpose and Objectives
First
The purpose of the Council is the promotion of religion by the dialogue between them. The aim will be achieved through: 1. Guidance to member communities and other religious communities, 2. Cooperation with the municipal institutions, and government agencies, associations, institutions and societies in the city, 3. Seminars, conferences, publications, interfaith events and projects.
Chapter Summaries
1. Introduction: This chapter provides an overview of how immigration has been framed negatively since the 1960s and discusses the demographic and socioeconomic impacts of migration in post-Communist Europe.
2. Immigration in Germany: This section traces the history of "guest worker" recruitment in Germany and discusses the evolution of integration policies, noting the shift toward recognizing ethnic diversity.
3. The Interfaith Council in Frankfurt: This chapter introduces the structure and goals of the Interfaith Council, highlighting its role in facilitating interreligious dialogue and addressing social coexistence.
Keywords
Immigration, Germany, Interfaith Council, Integration, Multiculturalism, Religion, Dialogue, Civil Society, Social Cohesion, Identity, Diaspora, Guest Workers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this essay?
The essay examines the interplay between immigration, societal structures, and religious identity in Germany, using the Interfaith Council in Frankfurt as a case study for integration efforts.
What are the main thematic fields covered?
The work covers migration history, the evolution of German integration policy, the sociological concept of identity, and the role of interreligious councils in a secular state.
What is the central research objective?
The essay aims to understand how civil society initiatives like the Interfaith Council can promote mutual understanding among diverse religious groups and reduce conflicts arising from multicultural challenges.
Which scientific methods are employed?
The work utilizes a qualitative approach, drawing on political science theories, sociological discourse analysis, and historical context to evaluate the function of integration-focused organizations.
What is discussed in the main body of the text?
The main body analyzes the "guest worker" legacy in Germany, the shift in political stances regarding multiculturalism, and the specific objectives and collaborative nature of the Frankfurt Interfaith Council.
Which keywords best characterize the work?
Key terms include Immigration, Germany, Interfaith Council, Integration, Multiculturalism, Religion, Dialogue, Civil Society, and Identity.
How was the Interfaith Council formed?
The council was created on April 1, 2009, as an initiative of civil society to foster cooperation with local authorities and promote dialogue among diverse religious communities in Frankfurt.
Why is this organization considered important for modern society?
It provides a structured platform for religious communities to participate in the democratic process and helps mitigate social tensions by promoting coexistence through active dialogue.
- Quote paper
- Dr. Christos-Athenagoras Ziliaskopoulos (Author), 2012, Immigration, society and religion in Germany: The “Interfaith Council” in Frankfurt/Main, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/192881
