Press Release

Published 7 February 2006 Author: FSPC – Communication

The cartoons: a call for respect and sensitivity

Moderation, respect, sensitivity in dealing with symbols of all religions and a rejection of violence: this is the call of Council of the Federation of Swiss Protestant Churches (FSPC) in connection with the conflicts over the cartoons about Muhammad.

The publication of cartoons about the Prophet Muhammad has led to vigorous reactions, violent outcries and attacks on institutions of European states in various Islamic countries. The FSPC Council is concerned at the development of events and calls for moderation and mutual respect.

The freedom of expression claimed by the media is one of the basic rights in a democratic state and must be protected. But so too must the basic right of freedom of religion, which includes protection against the violation of religious feelings. Press freedom does not find expression in putting up with or even provoking the violation of religious feelings; conversely, freedom of religion must not be abused so as to limit free expression of opinion or to call for violence.

The FSPC Council rejects the misuse of threats from extremist groups in Islamic countries for xenophobic and racist slogans here. It is grateful for the sensible attitude of Muslims in Switzerland.

The current controversy shows the need for understanding between cultures and religions. Pluralism calls for a heightened sensitivity and new instruments for living together in peace. The FSPC Council calls on creative artists in the media and the arts to show respect and sensitivity in dealing with symbols of all religions. That also applies to the Muslim media in their attitude towards Christians and Jews.

Along the lines of the 2003 interfaith declaration* by the faith communities in Switzerland the FSPC Council calls on the members of the faith communities to be come closer to one another “in everyday life, in school, in the workplace and at home, to create possibilities for encounter and to practise reciprocal hospitality”. By signing the Charta Oecumenica** in 2005 the Christian churches committed themselves ”to conduct themselves towards Muslims with respect and to work together with Muslims on matters of common concern”. On the other hand, the FSPC expects the Muslim side likewise to be ready for conversation about the understanding of the freedom of the media and religion and for a renunciation of violence.

* The interfaith declaration “Strengthening the Bond of Peace – in Switzerland and Worldwide” was signed in 2003 as a commitment by the three national churches, the Swiss Federation of Jewish Communities and the Coordination of Islamic Organizations in Switzerland.

** The “‘Charta Oecumenica. Guidelines for the Growing Collaboration among the Churches in Europe” was approved by the Conference of European Churches and the Council of European Bishops’ Conferences, i.e. almost all the churches of Europe, and was also signed by the churches of Switzerland in 2005.

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