Berlin: The chairman of the Turkish Community in Germany (TGD) has voiced strong criticism against the recently formed coalition agreement between the Conservatives and the Social Democrats, highlighting its lack of attention to the issues concerning the Muslim community.
According to Anadolu Agency, Gokay Sofuoglu, the chairman of the TGD, expressed his discontent with the coalition agreement, stating that it fails to provide reassurance to migrants, particularly Muslims, in Germany. Sofuoglu pointed out that Muslims and Islam are predominantly referenced in terms of security concerns, which he believes is a negative portrayal.
Sofuoglu emphasized the absence of migrant representation in the coalition’s delegation, underscoring the importance of inclusion within the administration. He noted that the coalition protocol does not adequately reflect the perspectives of migrants, leading to a lack of focus on their safety and well-being.
While acknowledging positive steps towards the protection of Jews, Sofuog
lu criticized the agreement for not addressing the security needs of other minority groups, such as Muslims and Blacks. He argued that the protocol lacks comprehensive data necessary to improve the situation of migrants in Germany.
Sofuoglu expressed skepticism about Germany’s ability to address the challenges associated with tightening immigration laws, which have sparked public debate. He warned that the tone of the discussion promotes a harmful perception of migrants, particularly Muslims, as potential criminals.
Despite his criticisms, Sofuoglu welcomed the swift formation of the coalition agreement, emphasizing the urgency given the growing support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. He stressed the importance of forming a government quickly to counter the influence of the AfD and maintain social peace.
Sofuoglu highlighted the shifting mindset in Germany, noting that a significant portion of society now accepts and incorporates the AfD’s views into government policy. He warned that
this shift could lead to the normalization of far-right ideology and the erosion of European values.
Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz announced that the Christian Democrats and Social Democrats have agreed to adopt a tougher stance on irregular migration. The coalition plans to roll back citizenship reforms, enforce stricter naturalization rules, expand police powers, and establish new national security bodies.
The coalition agreement is subject to approval from party bodies and delegates. The Social Democrats will conduct a membership-wide vote from April 15 to 29, while the CDU will make its decision at a party conference on April 28. The CSU has already approved the agreement during a video conference meeting.
If all three parties approve, the parliament could elect Merz as the new chancellor in early May, succeeding Olaf Scholz. The signing ceremony for the agreement is scheduled for May 5, followed by a parliamentary vote on May 6, as reported by media outlets.