Austria revises law on Islam

February 27, 2015

Revising a 1912 law on Islam, the Austrian parliament has banned most foreign funding of mosques and required imams to be able to speak German.

“Our goal is to have our own Austrian imams,” said Austria’s foreign minister, who stated the legislation would promote “Islam of European character" and “clearly combat” extremism.

“It is necessary for us to show young people that it’s possible to be a believing Muslim and a proud Austrian at the same time,” he added.

The new legislation, which also grants access to Muslim chaplains in prisons, hospitals, and the armed forces, was supported by the nation’s bishops, according to the Reuters news agency.

 

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Further information:

• Austria passes controversial reforms to Islam law banning foreign funding (The Telegraph)
• Austria passes 'Law on Islam' banning foreign money for Muslim groups (Reuters)
• Austrian Parliament Passes Controversial Amendments To Law On Islam (Religion Clause)