A NEW MOSQUE

Denmark has freedom of expression and religion enshrined in its constitution. However, freedom of religion doesn't necessarily mean enthusiasm for another religion, as was demonstrated last week.

The country has just got its first proper mosque (i.e. one with a minaret and other things such as a cultural centre and cinema), a purpose-built structure in Nørrebro in Copenhagen. The 6,700 sqm building cost kr.150 million, and was funded by the former Emir of Qatar. It was consecrated last Thursday.

You would think that this was an opportunity for the great and the good to turn up, and thereby show that integration doesn't just mean becoming good little (Christian) Danes, but can also include people of different colour and religion. Unfortunately, that was not the case. The royal family, the Bishop of Copenhagen, and the country's party political leaders all stayed away.

That was a mistake, in my view; gestures matter. The next time that politicians talk about pork meat balls being served in kindergartens, expect a loud raspberry from Muslim parents.

Walter Blotscher