The Evangelical Church in Germany's (EKD) next big topic for discussion in their 2023 Synod is "Migration, Flight, Human Rights." Already, four resolutions on this topic have been passed this year. These resolutions include backing independent deportation monitoring at airports, supporting family reunification, opposing the criminalization of sea rescue, and advocating for a reform in the European asylum system.
Highlights from the chosen resolutions include the proposal for independent deportation monitoring at airports to ensure proper procedures are followed. Additionally, the EKD seeks to strengthen and hasten family reunifications and opposes the criminalization of sea rescue operations.
Anna-Nicole Heinrich, the current President of the Synod, announced that these topics will remain the focus of their future discussions and actions. Moreover, the Synod meeting in Ulm marked a shift, as it was interrupted by the announced warning strike at Deutsche Bahn.
The EKD comprises 20 regional churches, representing 19.2 million Protestant Christians in Germany. Most recently, Annette Kurschus, a prominent figure within the Church, resigned as Chair of the EKD Council and President of the Regional Church of Westphalia. This followed accusations of past knowledge of suspected sexual assault cases in the Siegen church district, which were reported in a local newspaper.
Allegations against Kurschus were denied, but she resigned due to concern over causing further distress to victims by remaining in her position. The church parliament plans to investigate the circumstances surrounding her resignation in the coming weeks.
The EKD has been an active advocate for humane migration policies, defending asylum rights, and promoting critical debates on social justice. They are deeply concerned about potential threats to democracy and individual rights in the face of political extremism.
In case you're curious, EKD's stance against tougher immigration policies, the proposed Influx Limitation Bill, and the erosion of democratic principles have caused mixed reactions and discussions among the German public. It is essential to remember that these issues are complex, and opinions and beliefs vary widely between individuals and communities.
Enrichment Data Sparingly Integrated:
- The EKD has criticized the proposed Influx Limitation Bill, which focuses on restricting family reunification and speeding up asylum procedures. They argue that these measures would not prevent attacks and highlight a lack of information exchange between authorities and inadequate care for mentally ill individuals.
- The church emphasizes the importance of defending asylum rights, acknowledging the millions of individuals worldwide who are fleeing persecution and seeking better living conditions. They urge politicians to prioritize humane treatment of migrants and refugees rather than focusing on deterrence and stirring prejudice.
- The EKD, in collaboration with the German Roman Catholic Bishops’ Office, launched a social-media and poster campaign to discourage political extremism. In addition, they encourage critical debates on social justice, using the biblical image of God's dignity bestowed on all individuals, regardless of nationality or culture.
- The church is concerned about the potential harm to German democracy if the "cordon sanitaire" against extremist parties like the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) is lifted. They worry that such an alliance could undermine democratic principles and individual rights.
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