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Politician's Advisory Council

Elected officials in Germany frequently face threats from citizens, particularly in urban areas. A support service exists to assist these politically targeted individuals.

Political Consultation Council for Politicians
Political Consultation Council for Politicians

Politician's Advisory Council

In a democracy, the role of the mayor or mayoress is crucial, as they are the political heads of cities, either chosen directly by citizens or by politicians within the city council. However, these local and regional politicians, often referred to as municipal or communal politicians, can face challenges beyond their civic duties.

Recent reports have highlighted that these politicians, and in some cases, their families, are subjected to hate and harassment in their work. This is a concerning trend that has prompted efforts to counter these attacks.

Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, head of the Federal Domestic Intelligence Service (Bundesinnendienst), has established a support center to help these politicians deal with such issues. The center provides valuable information on how to counter hate and harassment, and it explains which threats are criminal offenses.

This means that politicians can now go to the police and file a complaint regarding threats. Faeser has stated that attacks against politicians are attacks against democracy, underscoring the importance of addressing this issue.

In a true democracy, the government must respect the rights of the minority, even if they have fewer votes. Parties with fewer votes can participate and sometimes co-decide in a democracy. This principle is essential in fostering an environment where diverse opinions can be heard and respected.

In a democracy, people can choose who will govern the country through free elections, with the majority deciding who governs. A free media is also a crucial component, keeping people well-informed and enabling them to make informed decisions.

However, the threats faced by these politicians can deter them from continuing their public service. Some politicians have stated that they are considering quitting due to the threats they receive. It is hoped that the establishment of this support center will help to alleviate some of the pressure they face and encourage them to continue their important work.

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