DUSHANBE, June 26, 2009, Asia-Plus — Although existence of democracy in Central Asia’s states is of declarative nature, however, it gives moderate religious political forces an opportunity to participate in the political arena, that is conclusion of the regional conference, entitled “Islam and Democracy,” which was held in Dushanbe on June 25.
Staged by Russia’s Center for Strategic and Political Studies jointly with the Rose Luxemburg Foundation and the Center for Strategic Studies under the President of Tajikistan, the conference brought together representatives public associations as well as religious experts from Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Russia.
Speaking at the conference, Dr. Arne Seifert, former Ambassador and Spokesperson of former German Ambassadors” Initiative “Diplomats for Peace with the Islamic World,” noted that Islamic movements active in the region could represent interests of believers in perspective.
He noted that social problems and dual standards of secular authorities might lead to radicalization of society.
“If the number of poverty-stricken people increases in Islamic parties, political level of these forces will lead to radicalization of Islamic parties,” Dr. Seifert said.
Authorities should consider opinion of reform activists from the Islamic parties, German independent expert said.
“it is possible to avoid contradictions between Islam and democracy,” said Dr. Seifert, “And existence of these contradictions is not logical.”
