Vienna Mayor Rejects Closure of Islamic Community Amid Government Push Against ‘Political Islam’

Vienna Mayor Rejects Closure of Islamic Community Amid Government Push Against ‘Political Islam’
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Vienna Mayor Michael Ludwig has rejected calls to consider closing the Islamic Community of Austria (ICA), the country’s officially recognized representative body for Muslims, as the government moves forward with plans to introduce legislation targeting what it describes as “political Islam.”

Speaking to the Austrian Press Agency (APA), Ludwig said combating extremism in all forms is necessary but stressed the importance of distinguishing between extremist groups and legally recognized religious institutions. He emphasized that the ICA represents Austria’s Muslim community within the framework of the country’s legal system.

The mayor’s comments came after Minister for Family, Integration and European Affairs Claudia Bauer announced plans to draft legislation aimed at banning organizations linked to “political Islam,” including the Muslim Brotherhood and other groups. She did not rule out the possibility that the measures could affect the ICA.

The Islamic Community of Austria said it rejects the use of religion for political or extremist purposes and opposes ideologies that restrict the rights and freedoms of women and girls. However, it warned that broad definitions of “political Islam” could lead to unfair accusations against Muslim communities and recognized institutions.

The debate comes amid growing efforts by Austrian authorities to tighten policies related to Islam, including Chancellor Christian Stocker’s call for a constitutional ban on “political Islam” and a recently implemented ban on headscarves for girls under 14 in schools.