The German-Arabic school in Berlin is under police protection
The Ibn Khaldun German-Arabic School in the Neukölln district of Berlin has become a beacon of tolerance, but at the same time, it is a target of hatred. It was founded by Hudaifa Al-Mashhadani from Iraq, and for the past five years, the school has been teaching around 700 students with the help of 23 teachers. The monthly fee is only 30 euros, making education accessible to a wide range of families.
What distinguishes Ibn Khaldun is its different educational approach. In addition to German and Arabic language lessons, students learn about Jewish history, the Holocaust, and democratic values. Activities include visits to Jewish synagogues, projects against extremism, and even student exchange programs with Israel. These initiatives, aimed at building understanding, have unfortunately made the school a target for extremists.
The security situation deteriorated after the outbreak of violence in Israel in October 2023. Since then, the school has faced attacks with slogans on its walls, windows being pelted with stones, and public threats. Authorities have placed the building under police protection. Despite all this, Al-Mashhadani refuses to give up, saying, "I am not afraid," but he admits that his greatest fears are related to the safety of the children.
The Mayor of Berlin, Kai Wegner, visited the school and emphasized its importance. He described Ibn Khaldun as an essential space for breaking prejudices in a multicultural city, stating: "We need more bridges between religions in Berlin." Wegner also condemned the rise of hatred in the streets and praised the school for being a source of hope and dialogue.
Collaboration with leaders of other religions, such as Rabbi Jeremy Borovitz, remains a central part of the school's mission. However, the ongoing need for police protection serves as a painful reminder that the defense of peace and diversity is not guaranteed in Berlin. Nevertheless, Ibn Khaldun continues its mission — teaching tolerance under guard.