Ousted from duty: Anti-Semitism commissioner
Brandenburg's Anti-Semitism Commissioner Faces Calls for Expulsion from Left Party
Brandenburg's Anti-Semitism Commissioner, Andreas Buettner, is embroiled in a heated controversy within the Left party. Nine members from various states have submitted an application for his expulsion, citing his controversial stance on Israel as the primary reason.
The controversy stems from Buettner's critical views on Israel, which some perceive as excessively harsh or even hostile. Critics argue that his statements contribute to a climate that undermines the fight against anti-Semitism, given his official role as anti-Semitism commissioner.
In May, the Left party called for stopping expulsion and famine in Gaza and enforcing international law at its federal party conference. However, Buettner's stance appears to contradict this resolution, as he has been accused of violating party lines and ignoring international law.
One of Buettner's contentious statements was posted on the X portal, where he stated that recognizing a state of Palestine would be the worst step one could take. This statement, among others, has sparked significant controversy within the party.
Buettner has defended his position, stating that resolutions of the party bind the party executive, but not every individual member. He also believes it is not his place to criticize the Israeli government. However, his critics argue that his statements about the Middle East conflict on social media have crossed the line.
The application alleges that Buettner's statements about Israel violate existing party resolutions and ignore international law. The nine members object to Buettner's criticism of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), a stance that goes against the Left party's party program, which stands clearly and irrevocably on the side of oppressed peoples.
Buettner has faced a barrage of criticism on social media, with some calling him names such as Zionist pig, child murderer, and genocide denier. Despite the calls for his expulsion, no official application has been confirmed.
The Left party has not made a public statement regarding Buettner's future in the party. Buettner himself has criticized the party leadership for not responding to his suggestion to meet with the Central Council of Jews. This ongoing controversy highlights the broader tensions within German politics regarding how to address Israel and anti-Semitism, especially within left-wing parties that often include a range of perspectives on Middle East issues.
- The heated controversy surrounding Brandenburg's Anti-Semitism Commissioner, Andreas Buettner, is fueled not only by his role but also by his stance on war-and-conflicts, particularly the Middle East, which some view as excessively critical of Israel.
- general-news outlets have reported on the application to expel Buettner from the Left party, citing his views on Israel as contradicting party resolutions and potentially undermining the fight against anti-Semitism.
- The migratory movement of Palestinians, as well as issues of justice and crime, have become intertwined with the internal politics of the Left party, as Buettner's views on recognition of a state of Palestine and UNRWA have sparked significant controversy.
