Ali Mete, Secretary General of the Islamic Community Millî Görüş (IGMG), issued a statement on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the racist arson attack in Solingen, as well as touched on the current refugee debate.

“On the 30th anniversary of the Solingen incident, we call for a greater sense of responsibility in the discourse surrounding refugees and migration. Today’s discourse bears resemblance to that of the 1990s and is unfortunately supportive of the perpetrators,” Mete said. He further elaborated:

“It is disheartening to witness a sense of déjà vu, with ongoing debates about refugees and migrants persisting even 30 years after the attack. Today, as in 1993, there are bills on the table aimed at tightening asylum laws, and politicians from various parties are vying to demand stricter border protection measures. While the language used may have evolved, the mindset and messages being conveyed bear a striking resemblance to incidents such as Hoyerswerda, Rostock-Lichtenhagen, Mölln, or Solingen.

As the Islamic Community Millî Görüş, we firmly call upon politicians to cease their endeavors to further steer the discourse on refugees towards the right. This approach only serves to bolster right-wing extremists who are inclined to carry out further acts of violence and extremism. The 30th anniversary of Solingen should serve as a vital reminder of the devastating consequences that result from such rhetoric. It is deeply disheartening that even after 30 years since the Solingen attack, there remains a pressing need to emphasize the importance of unwavering determination in combating racism. 

Despite the disheartening state of the current refugee debate, the Islamic Community Millî Görüş remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting social cohesion through education and dismantling prejudices. We honor the memory of Gürsün İnce, Hatice Genç, Gülüstan Öztürk, Hülya Genç, and Saime Genç, who tragically lost their lives in the Solingen attack. Our thoughts are with the survivors, and we extend our wishes for strength and resilience during this difficult time. Our hearts and prayers remain eternally with them.”