The state government of North Rhine-Westphalia introduced so-called "contact officers for Muslim institutions (KMI)" to the police in 2010. They are intended to ensure trustworthy and responsible contact and communication.
There are five mosque communities and several German-Turkish cultural associations in the district of Höxter, spread across the main towns of Steinheim, Brakel, Warburg and Höxter. In contrast to the Catholic and Protestant parishes, the mosque communities are usually organized in associations. The largest mosque community is located in Steinheim. Up to 200 people attend prayers here on Muslim holidays.
Klaus Geiser, who is also the district police officer for Bad Driburg and Nieheim, regularly visits the respective mosque communities and cultural associations on his own initiative or on request in order to establish and deepen contact on a basis of trust. In addition, support is provided to resolve any conflict situations that arise or external disruptions and difficulties.
"In the Höxter district, however, such problems and disruptions are largely unknown," Klaus Geiser can report from his experience. "Peaceful coexistence and cooperation with the local church communities are very important here."
However, the KMI is not only a point of contact for people of Muslim faith, but also for immigrants, regardless of which country they come from, what their origins are or which faith they belong to.
"Of course, it is not always easy to adapt to different and sometimes unfamiliar ways of life overnight," says Klaus Geiser, promoting mutual understanding. "For example, people from other countries are not always familiar with the various laws and regulations." This is where the KMI helps people to settle into their new home as quickly as possible and reduce any possible mutual fears of contact.
The state of North Rhine-Westphalia attaches great importance to regular training for its KMI of the district police authorities. The KMIs are specifically trained and educated in seminars on the topic of "intercultural competence".
The police make a further contribution to the peaceful and balanced coexistence of people in the Höxter district by deploying the KMI on site.
Klaus Geiser can be contacted at the district office in Bad Driburg on 05253/98701748.