In his column, Mohamad Alkhalaf recounts his first experience in Munich as a refugee, where feelings of fear and alienation from security forces plagued him during the Munich Security Conference. He discusses the symbolic barriers present at the event, highlighting his perception of the Bavarian Hof as an exclusionary space rather than a platform for dialogue. The security measures, such as barricades and police presence, deepened his sense of not belonging and his understanding that security was often claimed by others, which caused him anxiety.

During this year's Munich Security Conference, Alkhalaf encountered Bavaria's Minister President, Markus Söder. In this meeting, he was able to express his culinary preferences, humorously engaging in a cultural exchange. This personal anecdote serves to bridge the divide between differing experiences of safety and cultural identity. Alkhalaf's reflections highlight the nuances of belonging and the intersection of politics and personal identity in the context of his past as a refugee.

The article ultimately presents a critical perspective on the concept of security from the viewpoint of someone who lived a life marked by instability and fear. It encourages readers to think about the implications of security measures on marginalized communities and the need for inclusive dialogue within spaces typically dominated by political and security discussions. Alkhalaf's personal story serves as a powerful reminder of the diverse narratives that exist within such significant events.