Güner Yasemin Balci’s *Heimatland* reignites Germany’s fiery integration debate
Güner Yasemin Balci, a Berlin-based social worker and filmmaker, released her book Heimatland in August 2023. The work has sparked debate for its controversial views on migration, Islam, and integration—topics she has long addressed in public discussions. Born in 1975 to Alevi Turkish parents, Balci grew up in Neukölln’s Rollberg neighbourhood, an experience that shapes her sharp critiques of multicultural society today.
Balci first gained attention in 2020 when she was appointed integration officer for Neukölln by district mayor Martin Hikel (SPD). At the time, she congratulated the far-right AfD, a party she now claims should be banned. Her latest book builds on earlier arguments, warning of an isolated, reactionary Islamic parallel society in Germany. She describes Turkish, Arabic, and Albanian fathers as patriarchal figures and accuses Salafists and imams of enforcing Sharia rules.
Balci’s book and public statements have reinforced her role as a divisive figure in Germany’s integration debate. Her critiques of Islam and migration, though framed as bold truths, often mirror far-right talking points. The discussions she provokes now centre on whether her approach helps or hinders the very communities she claims to defend.
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