With the grace of Allah, the Almighty, the Shura Council in its 10^th term of the Federation of Islamic Organizations in Europe (FIOE) held its 7^th assembly on 29^th – 31^st October, 2016 CE \ 26th – 29^th Muharram, 1438 AH, in Sarajevo, capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the participation of the FIOE leadership as well as representatives of the European member organizations.

The Shura Council was briefed on the operation of the Executive Office, in accordance with the adopted general plan for the 10^th term (2014 – 2018), and acknowledged their report. In the same context, the Council discussed different approaches and tools for supporting institutional development, in order to advance the momentum of FIOE as well as member organizations, and elevate their important roles in serving their respective societies.

In addition, the Council met with the Islamic Community in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Mashyakha), and a number of civil society organizations. The Council’s members praised the vital role played by the (Mashyakha) as a religious authority, and valued the distinct experience of co-existence, in the light of religious and ethnic pluralism within Bosnian society. Moreover, the two parties exchanged views on possible ways of coordination and promoting collaboration on issues of common interest at the European level.

During its assembly, the Council studied the prospects of managerial reform, in addition to the options for development of the organizational structure on FIOE central level as well as the member organizations. It also considered the ways of furthering the efficiency, and the means of promoting multiple responsibilities within FIOE work areas, with due effective strategies on the local, regional and continental levels in Europe. In this regard, the Council further stressed the importance of the presence of women in leadership boards and councils of Islamic institutions, coupled with generating opportunities to empower youth, and encourage their positive participation, to achieve the desired success both professionally and socially.

The attendance discussed the current status and recent developments in Europe, and their impact on Muslims. Such issues include the dangers of heightened racial hatred, and attacks against mosques, Islamic centres and other facilities. In the same context, the Council reviewed some surveys and relevant research before concluding a number of important decisions and recommendations, which are mainly centred on the optimal mechanisms to interact with such challenges. The Council gave emphasis to unconditionally renouncing racism and stressed the importance of collaboration against the increasing ban and exclusion culture, by promoting shared human values, defending religious freedom, equality and equal opportunities.

The Council commended the efforts of Islamic foundations in promoting religious awareness among Muslims, in an attempt to protect them from the dangers of extremism and fanaticism that tear the fabric of society; and in turn threaten its security and social stability. Likewise, the Council called upon Muslims of Europe to advance their social constructive participation, strengthen effective communication with all genuine parties, and enhance cooperation and coordination with civil society organizations in various fields. This trend is in pursuance of FIOE’s established mission, i.e. “promoting Islam, supporting Muslims of Europe, helping them to practice religious duties, and actively participate in various aspects of life, within a centric framework of understanding together with a reform-renewal approach”, in addition to the consequent strategic goals indicated in the newly developed vision.

Continue reading at: The Federation of Islamic Organizations in Europe’s Website