Brandenburg's Parliament prioritizes Jewish Communities' Input
In a shift towards inclusivity, the Brandenburg state parliament aims to engage Jewish communities more closely during the creation of an anti-Semitism commissioner's position. SPD parliamentary group leader Daniel Keller, speaking in Potsdam, confirmed their intention to honor the Jewish associations' wishes and consult them during the commissioner's appointment.
Following a hearing, all coalition factions – SPD, CDU, Greens, Left Party, and Free Voters – agreed to advertise this role. Their primary goal is to make the anti-Semitism commissioner a point of contact for Jews and Jewish groups, especially during suspected anti-Semitic incidents. The commissioner's role will also promote dialogue between religions and strengthen connections with Brandenburg's Jewish communities.
But so far, Jewish groups haven't felt adequately involved in the plans. The Left Party and Free Voters urged a call for tenders and warned against appointing someone based on party affiliation. The revised bill, tabled by the SPD, CDU, Greens, Left Party, and Free Voters, now requires consulting Jewish groups on parliamentary groups' personnel proposals before the vacancies are filled.
Despite opposition from the AfD parliamentary group, who accused the other groups of playing politics at the expense of those affected by anti-Semitism, the position of the anti-Semitism commissioner was approved by a large majority in the state parliament.
Police data showed a 30% increase in anti-Semitic crimes in Brandenburg last year, reaching 195. The Interior Minister, Michael Stübgen (CDU), promised to protect Jews following the attack on Israel by the Islamist Hamas. SPD parliamentary group leader Keller emphasized the importance of the commissioner working with the Ministry of the Interior to develop security concepts.
Though specific sources do not mention the Brandenburg state parliament's direct involvement of Jewish communities during the appointment process, it aligns with the broader German approach involving significant engagement with Jewish communities and other stakeholders in combating antisemitism.
