Germany’s Krefeld allows adhan broadcast on speakers every Friday

In a landmark decision, Krefeld, Germany, allows the call to prayer to be broadcast through speakers every Friday, signifying an important step in recognizing the rights of Muslim communities

In Krefeld, Germany, the Islamic call to prayer, known as the adhan, will be broadcast through speakers every Friday following a signing ceremony at the office of Mayor Frank Meyer. The first call to prayer is set to be broadcast on May 3.

During the signing ceremony, Mayor Meyer expressed consideration for the rights of Muslims, stating, “We continue to work in harmony with Muslim communities, city residents, neighbors, and local authorities. We have reached a mutual agreement on the protocol for reciting the call to prayer, which will be between 55 and a maximum of 70 decibels and will not disturb city residents. Calls to prayer will now be recited from all mosques in Krefeld.”

Adem Cankur, the President of the Krefeld Turkish-Islamic Union for Religious Affairs (DITIB) Yunus Emre Mosque Association, thanked those involved in the protocol, particularly the city administration.

Cankur stated, “We came here as guest workers, but we are part of this society. As Muslims of Krefeld, we continue our work in harmony with all beliefs, without bothering or separating. With today’s signed protocol, we felt that we belong here. Hopefully, this practice will be implemented in all cities.”

Cankur also shared that Mayor Meyer will visit mosques on May 3 when the first call to prayer is recited.

The signing ceremony was attended by the Vice President of the Krefeld DITIB Yunus Emre Mosque Mehmet Demir, religious official Arif Keskin and President of the Krefeld Muslims Union Tufan Unal.

‘An expression of belonging for Muslims living in Germany’

DITIB President Muharrem Kuzey expressed joy at the permission for the call to prayer to be broadcast through speakers every Friday.

Kuzey emphasized that this decision is a sign of acceptance and an important contribution to the culture of living together, stating that the signed protocol is “an expression of Muslims who have been living in Germany for a long time belong to this society.”

Kuzey emphasized that adhan recited outdoors is a fundamental right protected by the German constitution for Muslims living in the country.

Kuzey thanked Mayor Meyer, expressing hope that this protocol will serve as an example for other cities.

Source: Newsroom