Hallo, I am a linguist and I enjoy creating new alphabets and I teach phonetics.
I have created several keyboard layouts for different purposes.
I have 3 for English and 2 for Vietnamese.
Due to jumping between all 5 of them very often, I want to change the sequence of keyboard layouts in the keyboard layout selection list.
Note that I am not trying to change the order of languages in this list.
I want to change the order of keyboard layouts per language in this list.
Currently it is:

• [A] English UK (primary, Microsoft's)
• [B] English UK + Additional symbols (IPA) (mine)
• [C] English UK - New orthography (mine)
• [D] Vietnamese Telex (Microsoft's)
• [E] Vietnamese - New orthography (mine)

https://preview.redd.it/00luw3our45d1.png?width=370&format=png&auto=webp&s=091c34cd4dad34c6a74d5e9e2546466a11409336
I want to reorder these to:

• [C] English UK - New orthography (primary, mine)
• [B] English UK + Additional symbols (IPA) (mine)
• [A] English UK (Microsoft's)
• [E] Vietnamese - New orthography (mine)
• [D] Vietnamese Telex (Microsoft's)

I have changed this order successfully in the past, on Windows 10 I guess, but I remember it took me a tonne of searching to find the solution. Google is getting worse and worse, always shoehorning search queries into a basickified query and spitting back some almost random crap that is barely relevant. All search results tell me how to change the order of the languages, or how to set a default keyboard layout as an override. It should be clear from my explanation that that is not what I am looking for. Despite it having a similar effect, I know what I want to achieve and I know that it's possible.
I'm pretty sure there's something to change in the registry, or in the older Control Panel realms.
Any ideas please?
Many thanks 🙏

GGSP+B is a mid-far future space opera exploring the FTL-enabled push and pull of the Fedyral and Corporate Powers as they each seek to monopolize production of Flux Fuel upon the other.
On the periphery of their legally delegated semi annual struggle, an overwhelming force of previously loosely aligned Pirates, disillusioned Employees, and exiled Citizens threaten to seize the means of astrodynamic production directly for themselves.
GGSP+B prioritizes realism and scientific backing whenever possible, with the exception of Flux Fuel for FTL travel, interspersing the primary narrative focus of politics, bureaucracy, and red tape in the neo-space age with fast paced combat sections, both boots on the ground and in the air, in a similar presentation to the Scanning sections of the classic sci fi novel Stand on Zanzibar.
The Standard is the Federation's most widely recognized symbol despite not being the politie's emblem.
While the flag of the Solar Fedyration has remained consistent since the de-facto unification of Earth in 2117, The Standard was first flown in 2271, three years after the outbreak of the Solar Civil War, now known as the First Corpo-Fedyral Entanglement.
Elements of The Standard, top to bottom:
Emblem of the Imperator : A snake bites the forbidden fruit and wraps it's tail around the crown of power. Right, an abstract depiction of the Kessler Syndrome event that drove Humanity to seriously pursue space colonization. The yinyamg embodies the balance inherent in both.
Fedyral Eagle : An interpretation of the German Bundestag. Germany lead the charge within the UN to engage in diplomacy with the Roscosmos League after scientists secretly collaborating in both blocs jointly discovered Flux Fuel Propulsion, enabling FTL travel, and ending Cold War II.
Red lines: The constellation Centaurus, home of Alpha Centauri, star system closest to earth (bottom leftmost star) and Menkent, a massive star a significant distance from Sol (Large star at the eye of the eagle.) Centaurus was set as the boundary for the first Fedyral Bubble, and Fedyral powers fought for years evicting Corporate powers from the space.
Bottom symbol : The Proximormon Cross. Primary religion of the Fedyration. The bottom arc represents Earth, the joining line Human escape from Sol, the above arc the heavens et al. The symbol of the line and top arc together represent the Death of the Resurrection, where the supposed second coming of Christ was stoned to death in a riot on Mars.

Keyboard: Advantage360 Signature Series Smartset USB
I am using the SmartSet App on Mac to configure my keyboard.
Hi, please see the two images below. The first image is my base layer, and the second is my fn1 layer.
I have mapped the "fn1 shift" key in my base layer key to a thumb key (highlighted in red in the first image). When I press this key, I then get access of course to the fn1 layer, which has my numbers and symbols. If I want to access the "(" symbol, I hold down the "left shift" key I have mapped to a thumb key on the fn1 layer, and then press 9. Thus, to access the "(" symbol, I do the following:
"fn1 shift (base layer)" + "left shift (fn1 layer)" + "9 (fn1 layer)" = "("
However, sometimes, but not all the times, after I do this, and let go of all the keys I am holding down, there is some permanent shift in my keyboard so that all letters on my base later are upper case, and all numbers on the "fn1 layer" are now showing they're symbols. Basically the "shift" button has been permanently triggered. I can only fix this by unplugging and plugging back in the keyboard.
How do I fix this? Thanks, this is new to me.
https://preview.redd.it/wtigfqtuw05d1.png?width=1131&format=png&auto=webp&s=26f87e90924f907094255135f7cf2f0ffc1d8f6b
https://preview.redd.it/n218yptuw05d1.png?width=1111&format=png&auto=webp&s=65114bd7cf37e0ce6c32c27600555f28535b96d8

Avalanche Software has finally unveiled the patch notes for Hogwarts Legacy’s eagerly awaited Summer Update, which will be available on June 6, 2024. Fans already knew that Hogwarts Legacy’s new update would bring a previously PlayStation-exclusive quest to all players, include a Photo Mode, and fix several bugs, but they can now discover exactly what is changing in the Summer Update.
Hogwarts Legacy was the most popular game released in 2023, selling over 24 million units. Due to its popularity, many Hogwarts Legacy fans have been pretty interested in the Summer Update since it was unveiled earlier this year. With the update’s release getting close, Hogwarts Legacy is climbing the sales charts again, appearing as the most-sold game in the United Kingdom this week.
Now, the Hogwarts Legacy developers have unveiled the official patch notes for the Summer Update. The patch comes with three major additions: the previously PlayStation-exclusive Haunted Hogsmeade Shop mission becoming available on all platforms, the new Photo Mode, and the option to reset talent points. The Photo Mode is a major highlight of the patch, as it was among the most commonly asked features by fans. This new feature will give players a huge variety of tools to take pictures of the game, including removing characters, changing seasons, the time of day, and more. The patch will also bring new cosmetic items, including a broom.
Apart from these major additions, Hogwarts Legacy’s Summer Update will also fix over 30 bugs. Some of these fixes include translation issues, while others are related to gameplay elements, UI, and graphic glitches. Bugs fixed by the update include the removal of butterflies that misled players to previously opened treasure chests and a problem where a blinding light would appear as gamers left the castle. Also, some of these bug fixes are specific to some platforms, such as PS5, where the main character’s dialogue volume was increased during the final fight, or PC, where the update cleaned up glitched semi-translucent meshes in Raytracing.
Hogwarts Legacy fans will likely be wondering whether this will be the final major update for the game. While it’s possible that Avalanche Software will keep working on minor issues such as fixing bugs, it’s more likely that the team will focus on a potential Hogwarts Legacy sequel. At the moment, however, Hogwarts Legacy 2 is still not confirmed, and there’s no available information on possible settings or characters that the title may have.
Hogwarts Legacy Summer Update Patch Notes
Build Version – 1218405
Developer notes
This Patch unlocks the Haunted Shop mission previously available only to Sony platforms on all supported platforms, as well as all previously exclusive items and cosmetics, including:
The Onyx Hyppogriff mount. The Felix Felicis Potion. The Shopkeeper Cosmetic set.
It also includes new, never seen before cosmetic items, AND a new broom:
The Lavender Borealis. The Azkaban Themed gear. The Circular Taped Spectacles.
A Photo Mode has also been added to allow players to capture screenshots of their Hogwarts Legacy experience and all their newly unlocked cosmetics. *Photo mode will become available after completing the mission to gain access the field guide.
In addition, this patch also provides players with a talent point reset function, to re-build your ideal Witch/Wizard without having to start a new playthrough. Multiple bugs have also been addressed (Details below).
Localization
Implemented several updated localized Voice Over retakes for Japanese and Spanish. Fixed the Brazilian Portuguese translation of “Silver Rim Spectacles”. Fixed a Typo in the “Wingardium Leviosa” French spell description. Fixed several Voice Over cut-offs throughout the game.
Audio
Fixed several Voice Over cut-offs throughout the game. Fixed instance where the SFX/Dialogue Volume would become louder than the music Volume while using stereo devices and being set to 50%. HL-12010
UI
Fixed instance that made player unable to select field guide pages’ options when accessing the menu while holding down the basic spell cast button. HL-1052 Fixed instance where loading a Manual Save or Fast traveling to certain locations would cause alohamora prompts to disappear from magical beast cages. HL-6258 Fixed instance where Dark Arts spells would become not equippable after equipping regural spells in loadout 1. HL-643 Fixed instance where the mission icon for the last arc of the Broom race would linger on screen after completion.
Gameplay
Removed butterflies misleading players to previously opened treasure chests. HL-10269 Fixed Instance where using the Swift talent on the edge of the map would cause mission progression to linger on the “Seach for the Rune Symbol” step. HL-15794
Achievements
Fixed instance where the Fountain on Hogwarts grounds flying field guide page wouldn’t count towards the Map Counters or The Bell Tower Wing Sector. HL-2376
NPC
Fixed instance where Lodgok would occasionally remain stuck inside the Hogshead in Hogsmeade instead of traveling to the Witch’s Tomb, preventing player progression. HL-15831
Avatar
Fixed instance where it wouldn’t be possible for the avatar to climb and reach a treasure chest in the High Keep. HL-15709 Fixed instance where the Legendary Masquerade Masks would clip within the avatar’s face when equipped. HL-4453 Fixed instance where swimming to treasure vault near Keenbridge would cause the avatar to fly into the air. HL-47
Navigation
Fixed instance where Professor Garlick and Professor Hecat could get stuck moving in the air after leaving the hospital. Fixed instance where a loading screen would cause a cage door to lock up again without regenerating an alohamora lock on it in a bandit camp on the north end of the map. HL-16327 Fixed instance where loading a save and fast travelling to any location would make alohomora locks disappear from fixed cages. HL-6258 Fixed instance where bone clusters would lose collision and fall through the floor when interacted with.
Combat
Fixed Instance where Loyalist assassin enemies’ attacks would not damage the avatar. HL-16614
Lighting
Fixed instance where blinding lighting VFX would display when exiting the Hallway castle vault. Fixed instance where light changes would be visible when the camera angle shifts while in conversation with Professor Garlick in the Greenhouse. HL-687
Accessibility
Fixed instance where setting left handed mode while in the vivarium caused the avatar to drink a potion or deploy combat plants while attempting to access the beasts’ menu. HL-8911 Miscellaneous
Updated Credits
PS5
Audio
Increased avatar dialogue volume during final fight. Localization Fixed instance where localized keyboard w/special characters would not display when naming Avatar and captured magical beasts. HL-334
VFX
Added missing fire VFX to the fireplace located at Pitt-Upon-Ford. Overland Fixed instance where a moonstone node on the mountain side could not be reached or interacted with.
Gameplay
Fixed instance where choosing to try again after falling behind Professor Fig inside Gringotts Vault would cause the player to respawn OOW and block progression.
PC
SDK Updates/Platform support Razer Chroma SDK support Streamline 2.4 DLSS 3.7 FSR 2 XeSS 1.3 DualSense/DualShock Controller 1.5.0 for improved PC support
UI
Fixed instance where the Spell menu would become inaccessible after binding Spell Selection to the TAB key, preventing player progression. HL-16635 Fixed instance where game would freeze whenever two HUDS would overlap. Fixed instance where the background of the menu would flash white when switching to a lower graphics preset.
Lighting
Fixed instance where moving the camera while on a specific Merlin Puzzle platform in Keenbridge would cause a strobe effect on the lighting. Fixed instance where ambient hues would change abruptly when moving the camera in Hogsmeade. Raytracing Cleaned up rogue semi-translucent meshes in BVH.

A Tragedy of Hate: The Murder of Rouven Laur - A Nation Grieves, A System Fails
The knife attack in Mannheim, Germany, that claimed the life of police officer Rouven L. and left a prominent critic of Islamism, Michael Stürzenberger, seriously wounded, has sent shockwaves far beyond the city's and county's borders. The attack, carried out by a rejected Afghan asylum seeker, Suleiman A., has ignited a national debate about the failures of Germany's immigration and security policies, the growing threat of knife violence, and the ever-increasing risks faced by police officers.
The Attack and its Immediate Aftermath
The attack unfolded with chilling swiftness. As Stürzenberger and his team prepared for an informational event, Suleiman A. lunged at them with a combat knife, inflicting multiple stab wounds. Officer Rouven L., responding to the chaos, bravely intervened. Tragically, in a moment of confusion, he turned his back on the attacker, leaving him vulnerable to the fatal blows that ended his life.
The nation mourned the loss of Officer L., with flowers and candles placed at police stations across Germany in honor of the fallen officer. Nikolaus Kramer, an AfD politician and former police officer, offered a poignant reflection on the event. He acknowledged the unpredictable and inherently dangerous nature of police work, noting that officers are often in a routine state of mind, as similar events have previously occurred without incident.
Kramer defended the officers involved, acknowledging a probable misjudgment but insisting the root causes lie in systemic issues. He criticized the de-escalation strategy employed by the police, suggesting it leads to hesitation in critical moments. Kramer suggested that a simple protective scarf might have saved Officer Rouven L.’s life, illustrating the dire need for better police resources.
Police Officers' Accounts of Violence and Risks
The attack in Mannheim is just one tragic example of a growing trend. Police officers across Germany are speaking out about a wave of knife attacks, describing a daily fear that "I could be dead now." Attacks with knives and other sharp objects have become an almost daily occurrence, leaving officers feeling constantly at risk.
Talking to NIUS, one female officer recounts responding to a domestic disturbance call where a man suddenly pulled a 20cm knife, threatening her partner. She was able to de-escalate the situation without violence, but the incident highlights the unpredictable nature of their work. Another officer shares how he was slashed in the arm by a knife-wielding assailant, requiring surgery and saying "I was damn lucky." Knife wounds can be deadly if they sever major arteries.
Police union representatives say there were over 4,500 knife attacks on officers last year, up 48% from 2017. They demand improved protections like defensive spray and stabbing-resistant vests. Violent knife crime has risen across Germany, with over 35,000 recorded offenses involving knives, swords or daggers in 2018 - an 8% increase from 2014.
Criminologists attribute the trend to several factors like immigration, gang violence, and a coarsening of social norms. Knives are easy to obtain and conceal, and officers say they are increasingly facing violent, mentally unstable subjects, often high on drugs, who seem impervious to pain and continue attacking despite being shot or beaten.
More officers are considering early retirement due to stress, and many suffer from PTSD symptoms.
The Attacker's Background and Deportation Issues
The attacker, Suleiman A., was a rejected asylum seeker from Afghanistan. Under German law, he should have been deported to his home country long ago after his asylum application was denied. However, Afghanistan has been deemed "too unsafe" for deportations, a policy that has been fiercely defended by a broad coalition of politicians and journalists.
Journalist Tilo Jung has been at the forefront of this effort, regularly raising the deportation issue at the Federal Press Conference. When Jung brought it up again in July 2022, Boris Reitschuster countered by questioning the German government's logic. He asked why convicted criminals cannot be sent back to Afghanistan where women, children and the elderly are already living in terrible conditions.
Reitschuster argued it is paradoxical to say Afghanistan is too dangerous for criminals while the vulnerable populations there are expected to remain. He suggested swapping criminals for women and children refugees if needed. Spokespeople for the Interior and Foreign Ministries completely dodged Reitschuster's questions, repeatedly stating asylum decisions are made on a case-by-case basis without addressing his core point about assessing danger for different groups.
Reitschuster sees the government's non-answers as a failure on deportations, which leads to crimes like the stabbing in Mannheim. He argues that a broad coalition of journalists and politicians share responsibility by insisting Afghanistan is too unsafe for any deportations. He calls the selective concern for the safety of criminals over law-abiding citizens "schizophrenic."
If Suleiman A. had been deported per existing law, the police officer Rouven L. would likely still be alive. Reitschuster says he cannot comprehend why convicted criminals cannot be sent back to Afghanistan where regular citizens already live in danger.
Bureaucratic inertia and political correctness unfortunately undermine enforcement of common-sense asylum laws. This breeds preventable tragedy. Public confidence and social cohesion suffer when the state cannot execute basic functions like deportations.
Reitschuster worries Germans have become conditioned to not think critically or hold leaders accountable on immigration and asylum issues after decades of political correctness. He remains pessimistic that mainstream politicians and journalists will reflect honestly on their own role in enabling dangers to public safety through selective outrage and whitewashing on matters like deportation.
Political and Media Reactions to the Attack
The reaction to the attack has been marked by a disturbing mix of platitudes, political posturing, and a blatant avoidance of the real issues. On the same day that Officer Rouven L. died, thousands demonstrated in Mannheim near the crime scene against "the right" rather than the Islamist threat. Meanwhile, Antifa injured a participant in the memorial vigil for the slain officer.
Most public broadcasters reported the officer's death without mentioning the perpetrator or his murderous intentions. Politicians expressed the usual platitudes about thoughts with victims but largely avoided addressing Germany's problem with Islamist violence. One state PM even denied on Bild TV any link between uncontrolled migration and soaring rapes and stabbings.
Foreign Minister Baerbock was "shaken" by the news of the officer's "brutal killing" in Mannheim, with thoughts for his family and friends. But she seems not to see any link to her own questionable policies. Baerbock and Interior Minister Faeser initiated a federal admissions program for Afghanistan, promising intake for 45,000 at-risk Afghans. It was suspended in March 2023 over Islamist abuse fears but quietly resumed in June.
Over 33,200 have entered Germany under the program so far, including over 20,300 local staff and families and over 12,900 other endangered Afghans chosen by unnamed NGOs. Baerbock should immediately halt this uncontrolled influx that endangers public safety, as should Faeser.
On the Foreign Office website, Germany still promises intake for "particularly vulnerable" Afghans, some pre-approved by NGOs of opaque credibility. Exits now proceed exclusively via Pakistan. The government continues enabling entry for thousands more Afghans despite proven security risks. Their sympathy feels insincere without stopping their reckless policies.
Afghanistan admissions officially restarted on June 26 after a three-month pause. The government slipped this through quietly, showing full awareness of the dangers. Politicians' professed shock at the officer's death is hard to take seriously when they knowingly persist in immigration policies that heighten the Islamist threat.
Even after warnings from its own Pakistan embassy, Germany continues admitting Afghans en masse through opaque NGO channels without proper checks. Germany promises intake for vaguely defined "particularly vulnerable" Afghans who face no specified individual threat besides having aided Western interests before withdrawal.
The government has fostered an insecure environment, significantly increasing the likelihood of attacks on public servants such as Rouven L., only to then feign surprise at the outcomes. Public officials express shock at the violence facilitated by their own imprudent policies, relying on empty statements instead of fulfilling their responsibilities to safeguard citizens.
The Foreign Office website still advertises Germany's readiness to take in untold thousands more Afghans without detailing improvements to safeguards since the suspension. Politicians want credit for compassion while evading responsibility for the worrying consequences like the Mannheim attack, which their approach directly helps enable.
German officials have shown unwillingness to make hard choices about security risks even after warnings from their own staff about exploitation by Islamists.
Stern disaster
The media reaction to the attack has been equally troubling. The German magazine Stern published an article mocking deceased police officer Rouven L., saying construction workers live more dangerously than police officers. This sparked outrage, as Rouven was stabbed to death during the Mannheim terror attack last week. Politicians condemned Stern, saying the article was tasteless and disrespectful to mourn the loss of a serviceman. The police union said the article downplayed the risks officers face and demanded an apology from Stern. Stern defended the article saying it intended to highlight occupational hazards, not mock individual victims.
The Silent March - A nation in mourning
In the face of this tragedy and the growing threat to police safety, the German Police Union (DPolG) and the Police Union (GdP) are jointly calling for a silent march in Mannheim. The march, scheduled for Friday, aims to send a message of solidarity with the “blue light family” and all of Germany.
DPolG Berlin chief Bodo Pfalzgraf warned that police are increasingly facing “an ideological, fanatical counterpart that has become a great danger.” The unions say the march will signal support for democratic coexistence. GdP's Stephan Weh agreed, saying politicians and society need to understand the daily risks police take for public safety. Attacks on police are attacks on democracy itself, he said.
The unions pledged to firmly resist any attempts to politicize the march and said all are invited who want to send a message supporting democratic coexistence. Banners, flags and signs are discouraged and there will be no rallies at the site.
A police union based in Blumberg has already raised over 480,000 euros ($500,000) to support the survivor of the slain officer, greatly exceeding its 100,000 euro goal. It plans to use excess funds to help families of other slain officers.
Investigators are evaluating the refugee office files of the perpetrator and co-investigating his known acquaintances. The investigation is ongoing but federal prosecutors have not yet found any evidence that others were involved in the attack.
The killing of the slain officer is part of a series of fatal attacks by asylum seekers in recent years. The anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has asserted that the government is responsible due to its failure to adequately mitigate security risks. The AfD, along with other opposition parties, has accused the government of evading an honest discussion about the connection between uncontrolled migration and increased violence. They contend that political correctness hinders the effective resolution of security issues.
Police unions walk a fine line as they seek to support mourning officers while avoiding overtly challenging government policy. Their planned march aims to quietly honor the slain policeman without endorsing a political agenda. Friday's silent march will mark the latest in a series of commemorations for police injured or killed nationwide. It highlights officers' dangerous work even as police tactics are questioned amid increased demands for accountability.
The attack in Mannheim has exposed a deep and dangerous disconnect between the government's rhetoric and the reality on the ground. While politicians offer condolences and promises of action, the underlying issues remain unaddressed. The silent march in Mannheim is a powerful symbol of the nation's grief and a call for change ahead on the EU elections.
Rouven
The senseless killing of Rouven has sent shockwaves through the nation.
While the nation mourns Laur's loss, a disturbing trend has emerged online. Some commentators, lacking any expertise in police operations, have ignorantly criticized the officer's actions. Left-wing extremists, blinded by their own ideologies, have contemptuously dismissed Laur as a pawn of a hated "pig system." Others have sought to relativize the tragedy by pointing to police misconduct elsewhere or higher mortality rates in other professions, missing the core of the event: the senseless loss of a human life.
These reactions are not only insensitive but also profoundly disrespectful. Rouven Laur, a young man with his whole life ahead of him, chose a demanding and dangerous profession. He knew the risks, including the growing antipathy towards police in society, yet he chose to serve, likely driven by a desire to protect a free and democratic society. He paid the ultimate price for this noble ideal, and his sacrifice deserves our gratitude, not our cynicism.
Rather than engaging in thoughtful discourse, certain individuals have capitalised on the murder to further their own political objectives. This has intensified anti-immigration and anti-Islam sentiment, exacerbating societal divisions. While the violent extremism that likely drove the Afghan perpetrator warrants condemnation and necessitates a reevaluation of how we oversee radicalisation risks, it is imperative to avoid collectively punishing immigrant groups or enacting restrictive policies that erode human rights, as these actions contravene our shared values. We must focus on prosecuting the individual responsible through appropriate legal channels, rather than generalising blame to broader communities.
Germany's police union has used the murder to highlight the growing dangers officers face, citing stagnant pay and support. However, it remains unclear whether such claims justify policy changes. Some experts argue that violent attacks on police have declined over the past decade and that reforms should focus on improving community relations. An informed debate on proper policing policy is crucial, but politicizing this tragedy impedes thoughtful reforms.
The murder of Rouven Laur serves as a poignant reminder of the extremist threats we confront and the sacrifices made by civil servants to safeguard open societies. To honour his memory, we must eschew partisan opportunism and reaffirm our commitment to justice, democratic principles, and human rights.
The Official Response and the Role of Ditib
Deputy Police President Ulrike Schäfer, in a statement released shortly after the attack, expressed deep sorrow for Laur's loss and condemned the hateful speech and blame directed at the police and the deceased officer on social media. She urged the public to refrain from speculation and to give space to the grieving colleagues and family.
The incident has also sparked a discussion about the role of Islam in German society. According to NIUS, Imam Abdallah Hajjir, of a Ditib mosque, delivered a eulogy at Laur's funeral, offering words of comfort to the slain officer's relatives and condemning the killings. His presence was welcomed by local officials as a sign of solidarity between police and migrant communities.
Hajjir's eulogy highlights a shift in Ditib's approach to integration in Germany. The group, which runs over 900 mosques in Germany, has been criticized for refusing to offer services in German and alleged links to the Turkish government. However, Hajjir's appearance suggests a move towards greater independence from Ankara and a willingness to engage with German society.
The Perils of Radicalization and the Deportation Dilemma
The perpetrator, Sulaiman A., migrated from Afghanistan and radicalized online in Germany. His case spotlights the deep flaws in Germany's asylum system. Despite being rejected for asylum, he lingered for a decade, aided by toleration statuses. Even if convicted for the killing, deportation is impossible under current rules.
While officials stress that no one is deported to face death, areas in Afghanistan and Syria allow returns. However, agreements with the Taliban or Assad are unlikely, making deportation practically impossible.
The inability to deport individuals to volatile regions like Afghanistan and Syria poses challenges for EU member states in managing security risks. However, humanitarian considerations and international obligations often outweigh these concerns.
The attack also raises concerns about the growing threat of radicalization online. Savvy Islamist recruiters are targeting alienated Muslim youth on TikTok or Instagram, and the government's reluctance to address these issues is allowing extremists to gain sway.
The Need for Reform
The tragedy of Rouven Laur's murder demands a comprehensive response. We must address the root causes of extremism, including the lack of integration, the dangers of online radicalization, and the failures of the asylum system.
The absoluteness and fusion of the temporal with divine authority in some interpretations of Islam remain unreconciled with Western secular governance. Reformations are urgently needed, and Muslim progressives must be supported in their efforts to align Islam with Western values and democracy.
Rouven Laur's death is a tragedy that should not be exploited for political gain. It is a reminder of the sacrifices that are made to protect our open societies and the need for unity and understanding in the face of extremism.
Habeck's Absence and the Echoes of a Numb Nation
The Bundestag, Germany's parliament, fell silent on Wednesday at the request of the right-wing AfD, a somber tribute to Rouven. This solemn moment, however, was marred by the conspicuous absence of Vice Chancellor and Economy Minister Robert Habeck. His seat on the government bench remained empty, occupied instead by State Secretary Michael Kellner.
While Habeck's official schedule indicated his attendance at an SPD Economic Forum event, concluding at 12:45 p.m., well before the Bundestag session commenced, his Ministry offered a different explanation for his absence. They claimed he was attending the International Aerospace Exhibition (ILA) following the SPD event. This explanation raised eyebrows, given the proximity of the two locations and the lack of prior scheduling information.
A Muslim Voice for Unity
Asif Malik, a prominent voice in Hamburg's Muslim community, offered a poignant reflection to the Stern on the attack, condemning the violence in the strongest terms. "Nothing can justify such violence," he wrote, emphasizing that the act directly contradicted the teachings of Islam and the fundamental values of German society. Malik highlighted the bravery of Officer Rouven L., drawing parallels to Islamic scripture that emphasizes the sanctity of life. He praised the officer's selfless sacrifice, both in the line of duty and as an organ donor, as a testament to the profound impact one life can have on countless others.
Malik acknowledged the re-ignited Islam debate, with politicians like FDP leader Christian Lindner pointing to misplaced tolerance and others citing failed asylum policies. He cautioned against sweeping generalizations, emphasizing that while a small minority may celebrate this act, the vast majority of Muslims unequivocally condemn it. Malik asserted that declaring this act as entirely separate from Islam is crucial for Muslims to reclaim the narrative surrounding their faith. By actively challenging extremist interpretations, they can combat radicalization and foster a more nuanced understanding of Islam.
The Dangers of Political Correctness and Dumb Neglect
The tragedy in Mannheim has also exposed a deep-seated tension within Germany's political landscape. While Interior Minister Nancy Faeser vowed to fight radical Islamists, her actions in the past have been called into question. In late 2022, she rejected calls to reinstate the Interior Ministry's "Expert Circle on Political Islamism," which her administration had dissolved, according to BILD tabloid.
This expert circle, established in 2021 under former Interior Minister Horst Seehofer, was tasked with researching Islamism, developing prevention measures, and establishing monitoring of hate speech and Islamist violence. Faeser's decision to dissolve it was supported by the SPD parliamentary group, with security expert Uli Grötsch arguing against its continuation, claiming it would stir up general suspicion against Muslims. He asserted that existing state and federal bodies sufficiently monitor political Islamism and that the Ampel coalition had better methods to prevent radicalization, citing recent immigration and citizenship laws.
This stance has been met with sharp criticism from the CDU, with Islamism expert Christoph de Vries pointing out the irony that Grötsch, who actively campaigned against the expert circle, is now the federal police commissioner responsible for officers' concerns. De Vries accused the SPD and Greens of being "total failures" at combating the Islamist threat, noting that police had called for tougher action against Islamists. He argued that the expert circle was crucial for closing gaps in research on Islamism and developing prevention and deradicalization measures to counter anti-constitutional Islamist ideology.
The dissolution of the expert circle has left many questioning the Ampel coalition's commitment to tackling Islamist extremism. Critics accuse the SPD and Greens of being too soft on Islamism and wanting to "hug away" the problem rather than research and monitor it. Faeser's current vow for strong action after the latest Islamist killing of a police officer is seen by many as hypocritical, given her record.
The Perpetrator's Radicalization
The perpetrator, Sulaiman A. (25), arrived in Germany as an unaccompanied 14-year-old refugee in 2013. He became increasingly radicalized before the attack, raising questions about how he was able to live freely in Germany despite known radicalization tendencies.
FDP politician Wolfgang Kubicki sees failures by the authorities and raises the question of whether the attack could have been prevented. According to media reports, A. sought contact with Taliban-affiliated groups, raising further questions about the extent of his radicalization and the authorities' awareness of his activities.
The public prosecutor's office and state criminal investigation office have taken over the investigations, aiming to clarify how A. was able to live freely in Germany despite known radicalization tendencies.
The History of Islamist Attacks in Europe - Germany´s Charlie Hebdo
The attack in Mannheim is the latest in a string of Islamist assaults in Europe, following the murder of filmmaker Theo van Gogh in the Netherlands and teacher Samuel Paty in France. It underscores the persistent threat posed by radical Islamists.
Germany's leaders, however, have responded with platitudes rather than concrete action. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser warned of the "great danger" of Islamist violence but failed to outline new policies to prevent such attacks. Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier misleadingly described the attack as part of a "coarsening of political confrontation," rather than an act of Islamist terrorism, displaying a reluctance to confront radical Islam. Ricarda Lang, leader of the Greens, lumped the attack together with right-wing extremism as "enemies of democracy," ignoring the unique threat of Islamism and the need for specific countermeasures.
The reluctance of leaders across the political spectrum to address Islamism does not bode well for efforts to prevent future attacks. General warnings and moralistic rhetoric are inadequate substitutes for substantive policy changes. Effective counterterrorism necessitates stringent immigration controls, deportations, and measures to deter illegal migration, yet the ruling coalition remains unwilling to modify its permissive policies.
The attack is likely to further suppress public criticism of Islam, with commentators and artists already self-censoring due to fear of violence, thereby shrinking the space for free expression and enabling Islamism. Germany has seen increasing Islamist radicalisation, particularly among young people online, with extremist preachers reaching millions of followers on platforms such as TikTok.
The public understandably demands protection from Islamist violence, and parties unable to provide this will face backlash, as evidenced in the Netherlands and France. If mainstream leaders fail to take decisive action, populist forces will exploit the issue. The desire for security could significantly alter German politics.
No intelligence agency or court can substitute for confronting Islamism politically. Only democratic processes and open debate can achieve long-term solutions. Germany must finally acknowledge that Islamism currently poses the greatest threat to its freedoms and democratic order. Accepting this reality is the first step toward meeting the danger.
It is imperative that leaders explicitly repudiate Islamist ideology and its pernicious role in legitimizing violence. Vague warnings about 'extremism' fall short of addressing the distinct characteristics of this threat. A thorough reassessment and reform of immigration and integration policies is necessary to counter the radicalization of Islamist ideologies within Germany's territorial boundaries. While collaboration with mainstream Muslim communities is essential, it must not supplant a rigorous examination of how Islamist ideologies take hold and spread. Educational initiatives and outreach programmes should specifically target individuals susceptible to online radicalization, necessitating cooperation with social media platforms. Furthermore, Germany must reaffirm its commitment to upholding the constitutional order, which safeguards free expression and religious diversity from violent extremism in all its forms.
Calls for a Firm Response
Dirk Herber, a member of parliament and former police officer, condemned the "horrible murder" as "politically motivated - Islamist." He called for a firm response, arguing that criminal migrants should be deported regardless of residency rights. Herber advocated revoking dual citizenships in cases of abuse to enable deportations and said recent easing of naturalization rules by the ruling coalition should be reversed immediately.
Gordon Schnieder, head of Herber's party faction, blamed Germany's "too liberal migration policy" over past decades for allowing in many who "do not identify with our values." He stated that asylum seekers who commit crimes can no longer expect leniency. "We will not tolerate abuse of guest rights," he asserted.
Opponents from the Conservative party allege that the governing coalition's lax border control policies pose a threat to public safety. Whilst government officials unequivocally condemn the violent incident in question, they simultaneously caution against making sweeping generalisations that may exacerbate social divisions. Advocates for civil liberties, meanwhile, urge restraint in avoiding the exploitation of this tragedy to justify discriminatory measures against the majority of law-abiding migrants. Police unions are demanding enhanced safeguards, including augmenting officer numbers, the mandatory use of body-worn cameras, and more stringent penalties for assaults on law enforcement personnel. Furthermore, numerous municipalities are expressing outrage at what they perceive as inadequate deportation procedures for non-citizen criminals under the current federal regime.
Downplaying the Threat
Experts are sharply criticizing German politicians for downplaying the threat of Islamism for years. Susanne Schröter, head of the Research Center on Global Islam, accused politicians of ignoring the influx of violent Islamists into Germany for years and dismissing concerns as racism or "far-right." She said the uncontrolled immigration continued for years without serious countermeasures against Islamists, which is now coming back to haunt Germany. She said many leaders only change their rhetoric when facing potential loss of power, not out of genuine concern.
Last year, Boris Rhein of the CDU party cautioned against linking knife attacks to immigration, which Schröter sees as downplaying the issue. She said officials seem unable to acknowledge mistakes in migration policy and cling to it while solely seeing danger from the far-right.
Expert in counter-terrorism, Florian Peil, has suggested that politicians have consistently underestimated and trivialized the threat posed by terrorist activity, despite the concerns of the general public. According to Mr. Peil, Islamist extremists have been emboldened by the failure of the state to establish and uphold clear boundaries. Rainer Wendt, representative of the police union, has emphasized the importance of exercising greater scrutiny over individuals entering Germany, with a view to ascertaining their intentions.
Schröter has cautioned that the issue cannot be neglected indefinitely without severe consequences. Mannheim serves as a tragic illustration of this point. At the memorial service, colleagues mourned the loss of their 29-year-old colleague. Schröter has argued that politicians' rhetoric only undergoes a shift when they fear losing power, rather than as a result of a genuine change of heart. Mr. Wendt has emphasized Germany's neglect of its responsibility to scrutinize newcomers and their intentions. Schröter has warned that time is running out to alter the current course of action.
The tragedy in Mannheim has sent shockwaves throughout Germany, laying bare deep-seated divisions and prompting fundamental inquiries into the nation's approach to security, integration, and the combating of Islamist extremism. The forthcoming months will be pivotal in determining whether Germany can respond effectively to this challenge and address the menace of Islamism before it further undermines the very fabric of its society.
As German government leaders deliberate on their course of action, the far-right Alternative for Germany party, whose members have previously advocated for a "deportation offensive," are attempting to portray themselves as the sole entity willing to take decisive action. According to polling data, the party is vying for a second-place finish in Germany's forthcoming European Parliament election.
Berlin is now under intensified pressure to adopt a more stringent stance on migration, mere days ahead of the largest transnational elections in the world.

The Angel and the Dark River is the third album by the British metal band My Dying Bride. Aaron Stainthorpe's lyrics continued in the vein of Turn Loose the Swans, focusing on religious symbolism and relationship problems. Stainthorpe has said in many interviews that "Two Winters Only" is his favourite My Dying Bride song.
The Angel and the Dark River was arguably the release that saw the band travel furthest from their death metal origins. Aaron Stainthorpe dispensed with his death grunt entirely, and Martin Powell's violin and keyboard playing now seemed to be the basis around which the rest of the arrangement was built. Apart from the final track of the original release ("Your Shameful Heaven"), the tempo was unremittingly slow.