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ENGAGEMENT OR CONFRONTATION? The President of the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils, Dr Ameer Ali today expressed concern over some of the new anti-terrorism proposals announced by the government. “It is a bit at odds with the policy of genuine engagement with Muslim communities” he said. AFIC was pleased with last month’s Islamic summit called by the Prime Minister and thought it pointed to a policy of engagement by the government. It believes the news laws could endanger this. Muslim communities throughout Australia in general and AFIC in particular have extended their hand of friendship and co-operated with authorities in ensuring that any potential threat of terrorism would be minimised. The prospect of tracking devices and limits on dissent may threaten the future co-operation. There is a risk of criminalising Muslim communities and discriminating against young Australian-Muslims in particular. “We need to engage with our youth to win their hearts and minds, not alienate them” said Dr Ali. AFIC is particularly concerned with laws about incitement and how broadly this may be drawn and interpreted. It fears that debate could seriously be stifled about issues like the war in Iraq, if threat of charges hangs over dissenters. Dr Ali called for broad public debate of the proposal and for the government not to rush into adopting these measures that could be counter productive in the war against the terrorists. For further information contact Dr Ameer Ali, President 0405 151 540. Amjad Mehboob , CEO 0408 234 434
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