(Brussels Times) Twelve recognised Diyanet mosques in Flanders, associated with the Turkish Ministry of Religious Affairs, must remain free of influence from Turkey if they wish to maintain their recognition, announced Flemish Minister for Coexistence Bart Somers.
After a year-long stop in granting official recognition to new mosques, a new decree is making it possible again under certain conditions, such as a ban on foreign interference and financing. The new decree also ensures that Diyanet-affiliated mosques must thoroughly change their operation if they want to retain their Flemish recognition.
“Flemish Muslims are part of Flanders and full citizens in our society. It is therefore important that we restore trust and start recognising Islamic religious communities again,” Somers said in a press release. “But many Flemish Muslims have no need for Turkish state imams.”
