EU: Most beautiful minaret contest
COJEP International and IMCOSE (Muslim Initiative for European Social Cohesion) with the support of Council of Europe, ISESCO and Organisation of Islamic Conference have launching a contest to select the most beautiful existing Minaret in Europe through a photographic competition.
Mosques, with or without their minarets have been a permanent addition in the aesthetics of our urban landscapes. They are a reflection of the presence of the Muslim communities in our cities and in the company of other faiths and beliefs, convey a message of common living, peace and respect. It is however unfortunate, that lately some populist politicians and a section of media has made minarets an issue to curtail fundamental rights.
It is therefore important that the universal peaceful presence of Islam is visible and its followers are able to practice their religion openly as is the case with other religions. This photo contest is also intended to remove the misplaced fears and prejudices in European societies that Islam and Muslims undermine the Western values and cultures.
To participate, the mosques administrators in Europe must send photographs, highlighting their minaret as well as details on the specifications (height from the ground, width, date of construction, construction period, name of architect, etc.) before 15th April 2010.
This has resulted in attacks on ethnic and religious minorities and spreading of hate crimes against Muslim people in Europe. It is therefore important that the universal peaceful presence of Islam is visible and its followers are able to practice their religion openly as is the case with other religions. This photo contest is also intended to remove the misplaced fears and prejudices in European societies that Islam and Muslims undermine the Western values and cultures.
To participate, the mosques administrators in Europe must send photographs, highlighting their minaret as well as details on the specifications (height from the ground, width, date of construction, construction period, name of architect, etc.) before 15th April 2010.
The collected photos will first be reviewed to determine if they meet the selection criteria. The Jury which will be composed of personalities from different faiths and ethnicities and which will include people with different backgrounds will have the task of determining at a special meeting in Strasbourg on 19th April 2010.
The winners will be presented at a press conference to be held at the European Parliament on 20th April 2010. An exhibition of the most beautiful pictures of minarets and mosques will be held at the Council of Europe later this year.
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Source: COJEP (English)
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