Conversation with churches: Integration in Saarland needs new approaches!
Conversation with churches: Integration in Saarland needs new approaches!
On February 11, 2025, there was a significant exchange between the state government of the Saarland and representatives of the Evangelical Church. The Prime Minister Anke Rehlinger and several church representatives took part in this conversation, which took place in the State Chancellery. Prime Minister Rehlinger opened the talks with an impulse on political and social development in Saarland, in a context that is characterized by an increasing social division. Both sides expressed concern about the approach to political extreme and problematic political approaches that are becoming more and more present these days.
A central topic of exchange was social integration and humanitarian dealings with refugees. The church representatives, including church president Dorothee Wüst, emphasized the inviolable dignity of every person and make it clear that resolutation must be resolutely occurred against extremism and exclusion. Prime Minister Rehlinger thanked the church representatives for the open conversation, despite the different perspectives of everyone involved. This appreciation is in accordance with the principles of ekd that stand up for the dignity and rights of migrants.
Integration and refugee policy
Interior Minister Jost reported on the current challenges regarding refugee and deportation issues in Saarland as part of the conversation. Vice President Dr. Johann Weusmann called for a right of residence for legal asylum seekers who are well integrated and can make a living themselves. In view of the global escape movements, which over 100 million people are exposed to due to war, persecution and climate catastrophes, the discussion about asylum laws is also intensively conducted in Germany. While numerous people are calling for support for those seeking protection, the asylum laws are also tightened, which restricts the rights of migrants.The ekd criticizes these tendencies and calls for an end to foreclosure and an integrative policy. The central role of charity is to be emphasized in the social conflict. The global dimension of integration is also pointed out. The churches support the initiative to promote a common culture of remembrance, which was already well received in the conversations.
memory culture and education
Another focus of the exchange was on the importance of the culture of remembrance. Both sides emphasized the relevance of such a culture for the formation of value in society. The Evangelical Church suggested the formation of a "round table" to further develop memorial work at the Gestapo camp Neue Bremm. In addition, the churches and the State Chancellery have underlined the importance of mandatory concentration camp visits to schools in order to clarify future generations about the horrors of the past.
The reforms in the education system are also considered. The new community school regulations and their effects on the formation of values have been discussed. Prime Minister Rehlinger supports the integration of the protection of Jewish life into the Saarland state constitution, a proposal that received a positive response from the churches. The role of religious teaching in democracy and values was also discussed. This reflects the beliefs of the EKD, which state that an inclusive society must be built on the basis of mutual respect and understanding.
Finally, the plans for the Day of German Unity 2025 were also discussed, which will include an ecumenical service in the Ludwigskirche and a multi -day citizens' festival in Saarbrücken. All events aim to strengthen the community in Saarland and to promote the dialogue between politics and religion.For more information, Julian Lange, government spokesman in Saarbrücken, is available as a media contact.
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