Belgian Defense Ministry Sparks Controversy with Muslim Recruitment Video

"As a Muslim, can one work in Defense?". The question was addressed in a video recorded and posted online by the Belgian Ministry of Defense.

This is the ready-made formula used by the Ministry of Defense to carry out its recruitment campaign. This video is the first in a series entitled "The Reverse Interview".

The Ministry of Defense answers in the affirmative: "Defense is a neutral organization where soldiers all wear the same uniform and have the same rights and obligations [...] If the service allows it, anyone has the right to withdraw for a few moments to pray, regardless of their religious belief".

But this video quickly sparked a lively controversy online. According to the French-speaking Belgian Radio and Television (RTBF), many Internet users believe that the video makes a distinction with other religions.

"Although the question here only mentions Muslims, the message we want to convey is that everyone is welcome in Defense, regardless of their religion," defends the Ministry of Defense, through its press service.

It then clarifies the goal pursued by the Ministry in initiating this video: "This message is part of our diversity policy, based on the conviction that diversity contributes to the proper functioning of Defense and the execution of our missions and that each staff member, whatever their specifics, must be able to thrive and express themselves fully in order to contribute to the operationality of Defense".