Clarification after scandal: anti-Semitism and gender segregation at Kiel University!

Clarification after scandal: anti-Semitism and gender segregation at Kiel University!

The Islam Week at the Christian Albrechts University (CAU) in Kiel, which took place from May 5th to 9th, 2025, is currently causing heated discussions. Prime Minister Daniel Günther spoke clearly about the allegations that arose during this event. In addition to reports of anti-Semitic and misogynistic incidents, gender segregation at the events was particularly criticized. Günther calls for comprehensive information and makes it clear that such ideologies have no place at universities NDR reported.

The events that took place during Islamic Week are anything but unproblematic. Participants reported separate entrances for men and women and a seating arrangement that placed women toward the back and men toward the front. This shows that IHG, which organized the week of action, operates with a gender separation that is unacceptable to many. These and similar reports have also led to the concern of Science Minister Dorit Stenke, who emphasizes the importance of cosmopolitanism at universities. Especially since a study by the Federal Ministry of Research indicates that anti-Semitism at universities has increased since Hamas' terrorist attack on Israel, clarifying these incidents must be a top priority. Loud ZDF Israel-related anti-Semitism can be observed among 8% of students, which is not only a concern for universities but also for society.

Controversies surrounding speakers and content

Islam Week wanted to provide a platform for dialogue about Islam, but the selection of speakers drew strong criticism. This is how Sertac Odabas appeared, whose organization IMAN is assigned to a Salafist spectrum. In this context, seriousness was required with regard to the content and its impact on the students present. Eyewitnesses in particular reported anti-Semitic stickers that could be seen on laptops, making it clear that there is a need for action.

In order to clarify the situation, a conversation is planned between the CAU's Vice President for Studies and Teaching, Markus Hundt, and the IHG. Members of the FDP state parliamentary group have also called for the allegations to be clarified. It remains to be seen what measures the university will take. Currently, IHG has had some room booking privileges revoked until the allegations are investigated, as well MOPO determines.

Foresight

An important step in dealing with these incidents will be the meeting of the state parliament's education committee on July 10, 2025. Here the events should be subjected to a detailed analysis. Meanwhile, public attention remains high because the case is not only local, but also affects society as a whole, such as equality and cosmopolitanism. The political leadership gives clear instructions to the universities and demands support in the fight against discrimination and extremism.

Such incidents are not only a challenge for the CAU, but also cast a shadow on the higher education system in Germany, which, according to current studies, is confronted with growing anti-Semitism. A circumstance that is alarming for both students and teachers.