I condemn the attacks in Paris and mourn with the victims. As much as I empathise with the solidarity on the streets and in the social media, I still have reservations about slogans such as “Je suis Charlie”.

Because I have great respect for Stéphane “Charb” Charbonnier, 21 August 1967 to 7 January 2015. While working under police protection the editor-in-chief of Charlie Hebdo said: “I prefer to die on my feet, than live on my knees”. Who among us can claim to follow this principle – can I?

Terrorist acts shock me and this one especially.

Because France is more than my neighbour, my friend. Because I love Paris.

Because I take part in editorial conferences myself and am eternally grateful that my predecessors have fought for universal values such as liberty of expression and freedom of the press. And yet, I have to say that in my opinion some satires go too far. Multicultural co-existence means sensitivity and respect for the beliefs and feelings of others.

Because the distinction between Islam and Islamist disappears among enraged groups and emotions, driving people into the arms of Front National, “Alternative for Germany” and Pegida. 1.6 billion Muslims live on the planet, five million of them in France, four in Germany. They condemn the attacks just like Christians and Jews, Hindus and Buddhists, and atheists do.

Because the encounter of people of all religions and from all countries is the crux of our world of conferences, one built on openness and tolerance, encouraging and spreading these values. Such encounters provide us with insights beyond our own four walls. When we see how human rights are threatened, when we do not remain silent, but speak up. Loudly and clearly. Only then can we, can I, say: “Je suis Charlie”.

Kerstin Wünsch, Editor-in-chief CIM