The East Turkestan Union in Europe hosted an Iftar reception in Munich, gathering Bavarian politicians, religious leaders, and community representatives to promote dialogue, intercultural exchange, and solidarity.
The East Turkestan Union in Europe (Uigurische Gemeinde in Europa e.V.) hosted a landmark Uyghur Iftar Reception in Munich, bringing together high-ranking Bavarian politicians, religious leaders, diplomats, and civil society representatives. Uyghur Iftar Reception, the event not only fostered intercultural dialogue but also strongly underscored ongoing Uyghur advocacy efforts in Europe.
Held in Munich, the reception gathered members of the Bavarian Parliament, representatives of the Bavarian State Government, city officials, faith leaders from Muslim, Christian, Jewish, and Buddhist communities, academics, artists, and media representatives. Beyond the spirit of Ramadan fellowship, the evening served as a platform to highlight the Uyghur people’s struggle for fundamental rights, dignity, and justice.
Organizers emphasized that the reception was not merely a cultural gathering but a continuation of decades-long advocacy work aimed at raising awareness about the situation of Uyghurs and strengthening international solidarity. The atmosphere of the evening was marked by meaningful dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to peaceful coexistence and human rights.
Among the distinguished guests were Markus Rinderspacher, Vice President of the Bavarian Parliament (SPD); Karl Straub, Commissioner of the Bavarian State Government (CSU); State Councillor Delija Balidemaj, representing the Lord Mayor of Munich; Yanki Pürsün, Member of the Hessian State Parliament (FDP); City Councillor Marian Offman; Imam Benjamin Idriz of the Penzberg Mosque; Dr. Ian-Tsung Joseph Dieu, Director-General of the Taipei Representation in Bavaria; and Susanne Odin of the Evangelical-Lutheran Church in Bavaria. Their participation was regarded as a significant expression of political and moral support for the Uyghur community.
Enver Can, President of the Ilham Tohti Initiative, stated: “I am honored to be part of the worldwide (2026) first Uyghur Iftar Reception in Munich, which was attended by high-ranking Bavarian politicians. The reception was hosted by the East Turkestan Union in Europe, the first diaspora Uyghur NGO in a Western country.” He further added: “At the Uyghur Iftar Reception, I was thrilled to meet distinguished guests. Their presence demonstrates meaningful solidarity with the Uyghur cause.”
Founded in 1990 in the aftermath of the Baren Massacre, the East Turkestan Union in Europe is recognized as the first Uyghur diaspora NGO established in a Western democratic country. For 36 years, the organization has consistently advocated for the rights and freedoms of the Uyghur people, working to inform policymakers, engage civil society, and promote peaceful solutions through dialogue and international cooperation.
The Munich Iftar Reception thus stood not only as a symbol of intercultural harmony during Ramadan, but also as a renewed call for sustained international advocacy and solidarity with the Uyghur people.
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