LOC13:39
10:39 GMT
BRUSSELS, Sept 22 (KUNA) -- The Muslim Executive of Belgium, the main
representative body of the Muslims, has expressed "great regret" over a recent
decision by school authorities in the Flanders region to ban the wearing of
the headscarf in 700 Flemish (Dutch speaking) schools.
The Executive in a statement criticised the "unilateral" way in which the
decision was taken noting that some people are already calling into question
the social and juridical legitimacy of the decision.
"Belgium is par excellence the country of compromises. Its authorities have
therefore enough means indeed to find a conciliatory exit in this situation,"
it said.
"We remain persuaded that the coexistence between different cultures and
religions is a wealth, and that dialogue is the best means to soothe down
incomprehensions and mutual fears," it said.
The Executive called on all concerned actors for talks to find a solution
to the problem and encouraged members of the Muslim community of Belgium to
pursue democratic ways to express their points of view about the issue.
The headscarf ban had led to demonstrations in the city of Antwerp and one
Muslim leader even called for separate schools for Muslim children in the
Flanders region in northern Belgium.
The school authorities in Flanders argue that school girls are being forced
by their parents to cover their heads. (end)
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