David Müller, a German activist who advocates for religious freedom in Iraq, said his meeting with Sheikh Abdul-Mahdi Al-Karbalaey, the representative of Grand Ayatollah Ali Al-Sistani, Iraq’s highest religious authority, in Karbala, was one of the most memorable experiences of his visit to the country.

Reflecting on his time in Karbala, Müller said he entered the Shrine of Imam Hussain as a Christian, emphasizing that religious differences did not stand in the way of the meeting. He described the warmth and hospitality he experienced during his conversation with Sheikh Al-Karbalaey as deeply meaningful.

According to Müller, their discussion addressed the importance of dialogue and human dignity, as well as values associated with Imam Hussain, particularly the preservation of human dignity, resistance to injustice, and a sense of responsibility toward others.

Müller said one remark by Sheikh Al-Karbalaey has remained particularly memorable: “Tell the people in your country about what you experienced here.”

He stressed that sharing his experience does not mean overlooking Iraq’s political and religious complexities or presenting an idealized image of the country. At the same time, he said it is important not to portray Iraq or Shia Islam exclusively through the lens of conflict and politics, which often shapes perceptions among Western audiences.

“These encounters are also part of the reality, and they deserve to be shared,” Müller said, underscoring the importance of highlighting examples of dialogue, coexistence, and mutual understanding among people of different faiths in Iraq.

At the OJCOS Foundation, Müller works to advance religious freedom and social cohesion in Iraq by engaging with politicians, religious leaders, and civil society representatives. He also seeks to bring the concerns and challenges facing Iraq’s religious minorities to the attention of policymakers and the wider public in Germany.