Category: Statements

The Forum of European Muslim Youth and Student Organisations (FEMYSO) would like to congratulate Zamzam Ibrahim on her election as the President of the National Union of Students (NUS) at the annual National Conference in Glasgow.

The former president of the University of Salford Students’ Union and current NUS Vice President Society and Citizenship is the third black and minority ethnic (BME) woman to hold this position and will be representing 600 student unions and over 7 million students across the United Kingdom. The dedication of Zamzam towards supporting and campaigning for student rights cannot go unnoticed.

On the 9th of April, the NUS passed the motion to formally adopt the All-Party Parliamentary Group on British Muslims’ definition of Islamophobia, and commit to a suite of actions to tackle islamophobia in the student movement as follows:

• Subscribe to the definition of Islamophobia laid out by the APPG on British Muslims
• Introduce training and on Islamophobia and implicit bias into NUS training
• Ensure all student officers are properly held to account on any instances of Islamophobia

The NUS also passed a motion that the Union of Jewish Students is set to deliver training on Antisemitism to the executive body of the NUS. FEMYSO welcomes both motions which were put forward by Bristol student Sally Patterson.

FEMYSO would like to once again congratulate Zamzam and all elected Vice-Presidents (Erica Ramos, Claire Sosienski Smith, Juliana Mohamad-Noor, and Eva Crossan Jory) on their successful election campaigns and wish all the success in their roles in bringing real positive change to students across the UK.

ENDS

Notes to editor:

1. For further information, please contact: comms@femyso.org
2. FEMYSO was founded in 1996 in Sweden at a time when Muslim youth from across Europe felt the need to come together to create a united body, to share ideas and experiences, help develop the capacity of Muslim European youth and represent their concerns and views to the European institutions. Since then, FEMYSO has grown into a wide network of 34 student and youth organisations throughout Europe, all working to benefit their communities and societies. The FEMYSO vision for European Muslim youth is proactive youth participation and service to humanity. We have trained thousands of young Muslims, contributed to the emergence of a strong confident identity of young European Muslims, and built strong partnerships with organisations across Europe.
3. NUS National Conference 2019 started on April 09 and runs until April 11 in Glasgow. More information about the conference can be found at conference.nusconnect.org.uk.

The European Parliament today adopted for the first time a resolution on the Fundamental Rights of People of African Descent.

In the resolution, the European Parliament recognises that“Afrophobia”, “Afri-phobia” and “anti-black racism” is a specific form of racism, including any act of violence or discrimination, fueled by historical abuses and negative stereotyping, and leading to the exclusion and dehumanizationof People of African Descent.

The Parliament states that the phenomenon of “Afrophobia”, “Afri-phobia” and “anti-black racism” correlates to historically repressive structures of colonialism and the transatlantic slave trade, as recognised by the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights. Furthermore, the European Parliament said the issues of enslavement, forced labour, racial apartheid, massacre, and genocides in the context of European colonialism and the transatlantic slave trade remain largely unrecognized and unaccounted at an institutional level in EU Member States.

Cecile Kyenge MEP, Co-President of ARDI: “I welcome the adoption of the resolution on the Fundamental Rights of People of African Descent. I have been fighting since the beginning of the mandate to have this resolution passed and it sends a very strong message ahead of the European elections that we will not accept racism and discrimination against People of African Descent.”

Malin Bork MEP, Member of ARDI: “I am pleased that the Parliament has adopted this resolution and also the call that we must address past injustices. We must always remember the role People of African Descent have played in building European society throughout history. It is our duty now to ensure that we put in place strong and specific policies to address structural racism including in employment, education, health, criminal justice, political participation and in migration policies and practices.”

Amel Yacef, Chair of the European Network Against Racism: “This vote is a historic watershed moment for the recognition of people of African descent in Europe. The European Parliament is leading the way and sending a signal to EU Member States to tackle structural racism that prevents Black people from being included in European society. The ball is now in their court: we need concrete action plans and specific measures now.”

Resolution: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/B-8-2019-0212_EN.html

More information: alfiaz.vaiya@europarl.europa.eu

FEMYSO vehemently opposes the normalization of hate speech against Muslims and their dehumanization. The recent situation at the Austrian Parliament is an example of this increasing trend. While it has been less than a week since the terrorist attacks took place in Christchurch in New Zealand, the Austrian parliament yesterday allowed a so-called expert to express that she would use “a machete” to impose a Hijab ban.

During yesterday’s session at the Austrian Parliament, and in the presence of the Minister of Education Mr. Faßmann, the so-called Islam Expert Ms. Zana Ramadani was consulted on the matter of the ban of the hijab (headscarf) in elementary schools. Throughout her intervention, Ms. Ramadani has systematically used hate speech targeting Muslims in Austria. We noted her intervention after Minister Faßmann said: “I am not one who is fighting with the machete” as to which she responded, “to use the machete, that is [the reason that] I am here for.”[1]

We are appalled by the lack of reaction by the Austrian Government to take action against hate speech taking place in their parliament, and we appeal to Minister Faßmann to meet with academically credited experts in the field as well as members of Austrian civil society organisations to consult on the matter. It is noticeable that Ms. Ramadani’s language furthers hate speech against Muslim and reinforces the normalization of anti-Muslim hatred. The Fundamental Rights Agency findings in their European Union Minorities and Discrimination Survey, as well as the concerns raised by policy makers and civil society organisations, show that there is an increase in the prevalence and frequency of hate crimes targeting Muslims in the European Union.

As a Member State of the European Union, the Austrian government ought to uphold the fundamental values of the EU, which include amongst many other the respect for human dignity, freedom of belief, and human rights for all people living in Austria, including people belonging to minority groups.

END

[1]”https://diepresse.com/home/bildung/schule/5598480/Die-Ausdehnung-des-Kopftuchverbots”

Our deepest condolences to the people of New Zealand after the horrific terrorist mass shooting attacks on mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. We condemn such hatred and violence, and extend our support and most heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families.

This is a reflection on the increased and normalised Islamophobic and hate speech by a number of political parties and media outlets.

FEMYSO calls on the European institutions and all governments to condemn these atrocious attacks and to review their policies on hate speech and specifically speech which incites to violence against Muslims.

We at FEMYSO will continue our efforts on advocating against Islamophobia and all forms of hate speech, and push for more effective policies that reflects the seriousness of the matter.

#NewZealandMosqueShooting #Christchurch

[END]

Notes

1. FEMYSO (est. 1996) is the umbrella organisation of Muslim youth and student organisations across Europe, representing them on European and international levels.

2. For more information please email hassiba.kechiche@femyso.org

Le Forum des Organisations Européennes Musulmanes de Jeunes et d’Étudiants (FEMYSO) est une organisation européenne non-gouvernementale à but non lucratif qui œuvre à promouvoir la participation à une citoyenneté active auprès de la jeunesse musulmane européenne depuis 1996. FEMYSO essuie des attaques répétées de la part de groupuscules d’extrême-droite et d’autres groupes l’accusant d’être liée aux Frères Musulmans. FEMYSO nie catégoriquement ces allégations calomnieuses qui n’ont pour volonté que miner notre organisation.

 

FEMYSO compte des membres dans 20 pays européens et est entièrement dirigé par de jeunes bénévoles qui partagent une identité européenne et musulmane commune. Depuis notre création en 1996, faisant suite à une conférence organisée par le gouvernement suédois, nous avons été un partenaire clé des institutions européennes, de nombreuses organisations de la société civile et avons travaillé d’arrache-pied pour encourager les contributions positives de la jeunesse musulmane au sein de nos sociétés. Ceci témoigne de notre engagement et de nos efforts visant à promouvoir la citoyenneté active, la coexistence et les valeurs européennes dans tous nos projets depuis nos 23 ans d’existence.

 

La transparence fait partie de nos principes clés, et ceci depuis notre création. Seuls les jeunes bénévoles et les organisations membres de FEMYSO sont responsables de la gestion de l’organisation, du respect de sa vision et de ses politiques, ainsi que de l’exécution de ses programmes. Toute la gestion se base sur les préoccupations, les priorités et les expériences de jeunes européens. Notre comité exécutif, élu de façon démocratique, répond aux besoins de nos organisations membres et a pour obligation de rendre des comptes lors d’assemblées générales annuelles. En tant qu’organisation internationale non-gouvernementale, nos archives financières et organisationnelles sont soumises, conformément à la loi, aux pouvoirs nécessaires ce qui comprend les autorités belges et le registre européen de transparence.

 

Nous avons pris la décision de publier cette clarification après de nombreuses attaques envers notre organisation, notre comité exécutif ainsi que nos bénévoles, de la part de membres d’organisations d’extrême-droite et de médias mal informés. Ces attaques ont pour objectif d’intimider et de faire taire les voix de celles et ceux qui travaillent pour promouvoir une société diverse et cohésive où chaque personne, quelle que soit son identité, puisse trouver sa place et avoir accès aux mêmes opportunités. Il est important de noter que ces attaques sont fréquentes, et cherchent à porter atteinte au travail de beaucoup d’organisations musulmanes et d’individus qui œuvrent à contribuer de façon positive à la société européenne, et à combattre l’islamophobie.

 

Le comité exécutif de FEMYSO a toujours été très clair et transparent sur la question : FEMYSO n’est pas un parti politique, n’est pas lié à un parti politique, et a prouvé au travers des années que son seul objectif est de contribuer à la construction d’une Europe diverse, cohésive et dynamique. Notre organisation se réserve le droit d’entreprendre des actions en justice contre toute organisation ou tout individu qui participe à ces allégations mensongères.

 

[FIN]

 

Notes

1. FEMYSO (fondé en 1996) est une organisation parapluie de 32 organisations musulmanes de jeunes et d’étudiants à travers 20 pays Européens, est la principale voix de la jeunesse européenne musulmane, en les développant et autonomisant, contribuant à la construction d’une Europe plus diverse, cohésive et dynamique.
2. Pour plus d’informations ou de demandes, s.v.p. contactez media@femyso.org.

 

The Forum of European Muslim Youth and Student Organisations (FEMYSO), a European non-governmental organisation working to promote active citizenship and public participation among European Muslim youth since 1996, has faced repeated attacks by far-right and other groups accusing the organisation of having links with the Muslim Brotherhood. FEMYSO categorically denies these false and malicious allegations which are designed solely to undermine our organisation.  

FEMYSO, which has a broad membership in 20 European countries, is entirely run by young volunteers who are brought together by their shared European and Muslim identity. Since our founding in 1996 as an outcome of a conference hosted by the Swedish government, we have been a key partner for European institutions, numerous civil society organisations and have worked tirelessly to promote positive contributions by Muslim youth in all of our societies. This is testament to our commitment and efforts to promote active citizenship, coexistence and European values in all of our work throughout our 23 years of existence.  

Transparency has remained one of our key principles throughout the existence of our organisation. It is FEMYSO’s motivated young volunteers and member organisations who are solely responsible for managing the organisation, setting its vision and policies, and running its programs, based on their concerns, priorities, and experiences as European youth. Our democratically elected Executive Committee serves the needs of our membership and are held accountable at our yearly general assemblies. As an international non-governmental organisation, our financial and organisation records are submitted as required to the necessary authorities including the Belgian authorities and the European Transparency Register.  

We have decided to release this clarification after attacks on our organisation, its Executive Committee and volunteers by members of the far right and misinformed media organisations. These attacks are designed to intimidate and silence the voices of those who are working to promote a diverse and cohesive society which provides a place and opportunity for all regardless of background. It is worth noting that such attacks by the far right and others are a common means of seeking to undermine the work of many Muslim organisations and individuals who are working to make a positive contribution to their European societies and counter Islamophobia. 

FEMYSO’s Executive Committee has always been very clear and transparent on this issue – FEMYSO is not a political party, it is not linked to any political party and has proven throughout the years that our sole objective is to work for a diverse, cohesive and vibrant Europe. Our organisation reserves the right to take legal action against organisations and individuals making false allegations.  

 

Notes

1. FEMYSO (est. 1996) is a network organisation for 32 Muslim youth and student organisations across 20 European countries, and is the leading voice for European Muslim youth, developing and empowering them, and working to build a more diverse, cohesive and vibrant Europe.
2. For more information or requests please email media@femyso.org.

The Forum of European Muslim Youth and Student Organisations (FEMYSO) stands by the Muslim Association of Britain (MAB) and the Muslim Scouts groups against the smearing campaign led by the Telegraph. Muslim organisations across Europe work tirelessly for the prosperity, support and service of the wider society.

Throughout the month of February, MAB Youth and FOSIS ((Federation of Student Islamic Societies) are partnering on the Believe and Do Good campaign, where Muslim youth groups across the country will be participating in a competition of compassion in feeding the homeless, cleaning streets, donating blood and other acts of service.

Don’t forget to check out and follow the #BADG19 campaign here: https://www.facebook.com/believeanddogood/

Read full response by the Muslim Association of Britain: https://www.mabonline.net/response-to-telegraphs-attack-on-muslim-scout-groups/

femyso.org

Statement
Brussels, 11/12/2018

In these troubled times, The Forum of European Muslim Youth and Student Organisations (FEMYSO) stands in solidarity with the people of Strasbourg following the gunman attack at the local Christmas market this evening.

We are shocked to hear of yet another heinous attack, this time in the beautiful and symbolic city of Strasbourg.

Our most heartfelt condolences go to the families and friends of those who have been impacted today in Strasbourg and our thoughts are with all those affected.

Ends.

The European Parliament has voted for a complete ban on a range of single-use plastic materials across the union in a bid to stop pollution of the oceans.

Last Wednesday, October 24, It was by an overwhelming majority that the European Parliament adopted the draft directive against marine pollution. The text was approved by 571 votes against 87, including 34 abstentions.
The European Commission proposed a ban in May, pushed by a surge from the public opinion following alarming documentaries such as David Attenborough’s BBC Blue Planet series. Single-use plastics make up 70% of marine pollution, and their impact on wildlife is dramatically worrying. The strategy of this project is part of the European transition towards a circular economy and will also contribute to reaching the Sustainable Development Goals, the global climate commitments and the EU’s industrial policy objectives.

FEMYSO strongly supports this initiative for our Planet and is pleased to see that what started as local initiatives such as our Green Up My Community Campaigns is now a European directive fighting marine pollution.
By analysing the most common litter found across beaches, the EU targeted 10 plastic products widely used by the general public. Six specific products are now banned on the European market, this includes cotton swabs, cutlery, plates, straws, drink-stirrers and balloon sticks. All will now have to be made of sustainable materials. The “polluter-pays” principle is also strengthened to put a harder pressure on manufacturers.

Food containers and plastic cups will unfortunately still be allowed, but states will need to ensure consumption reduce. In this regard, the Parliament has set a goal of 25% less consumption by 2025. Plastic bottles, the main source of marine pollution, also remain authorized but their cap will have to be attached and their collecting will be strengthened.

FEMYSO warmly welcome the adoption of this historical measure and enthusiastically supports all sustainable and eco friendly initiatives from the EU tackling the environment.
Find out more about this adopted project, check the key document from the European Commission *here*

In these troubled times, FEMYSO stands with the Jewish community against the cold hearted, devastating and heinous shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, PA, US.

The Forum of European Muslim Youth and Student Organisations (FEMYSO) is deeply saddened to witness that once again hatred is the cause of another atrocity. This attack does not only target the Jewish community but all people fighting for tolerance, freedom and peace.

FEMYSO strongly condemns Anti-Semitism and all forms of hate crime. Such attacks should not be tolerated and we call upon the authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice. We also call upon entities in the wider political and civil society spectrum to put more effort into tackling this tide of hatred and violence.

We offer our sincere condolences to the families of the victims and our thoughts and prayers are with them during this time of grieving.

When in darkness, one should always remember to turn on the light, so let us be the light today by showing our support to the ones who suffers.

We commend the fundraising campaign organised by CelebrateMercy and MPower Change, where “the Muslim-American community extends its hands to help the shooting victims, whether it is the injured victims or the Jewish families who have lost loved ones” -> https://www.launchgood.com/project/muslims_unite_for_pittsburgh_synagogue#!/

femyso.org

Brussels,
29/10/2018