Anti-Semitism Crusade Becomes Berlin's Mission Statement
Kai Wegner, Berlin's Governing Mayor, joins the chorus calling for the nationwide battle against anti-Semitism to obtain a constitutional status. In an interview with Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland (RND), Wegner shares his support for enshrining the fight against anti-Semitism as a primary Berlin state objective in its constitution.
The impetus behind this proposition, Wegner explains, is the horrifying assault on Israel by Hamas terrorists on October 7, illuminating the pervasiveness of anti-Semitism on a devastating scale. "We witness this vile toxin seeping into Germany, even in places like Berlin," admits Wegner. Surveys reveal a disturbing trend - recent weeks have been marred by anti-Semitic protests, hateful rants against Israel, and a shocking arson attempt on a Jewish community center in Berlin.
"It is crucial to take a decisive stance and now, more than ever, we should make our position resoundingly clear," asserts Wegner. To ensure transparency and accountability, he proposes that the Berlin constitution be amended to reflect this national pledge to oppose anti-Semitism. This would involve the entire Berlin Senate, House of Representatives, and society at large aligning with this objective.
During mid-October, SPD Senator for Social Affairs Cansel Kiziltepe shared a similar stance. "It's disheartening - close to 80 years since the Holocaust - that Jews in Berlin do not feel entirely safe on their streets," Kiziltepe expressed to the German Press Agency. She proffered that it was high time Berlin's constitution incorporated the goal of combating anti-Semitism in reflection of the actions taken by other federal states such as Brandenburg and Saxony-Anhalt.
Identifying the Significance of the Fight Against Anti-Semitism
Besides improving Berlin's stance on this challenging issue, there are reasons this initiative possesses potentially far-reaching implications.
1. International Observer
Germany's efforts in combating anti-Semitism are being observed at an international level. The European Union and the United Nations have been actively monitoring Germany's progress in tackling this pernicious problem. By codifying an anti-Semitism policy in its constitution, Berlin could establish an example that other countries might emulate.
2. Bolstering Social Unity
As a nation with a rich history and several immigrant communities, Germany has experienced its fair share of social unrest. The Council of Europe Human Rights Commissioner, Dunja Mijatović, expresses that Europe "has seen the rise of neo-fascism, racist hate speech, and conspiracy theories, fueled by the internet and social media."
By addressing anti-Semitism, Berlin is demonstrating its commitment to building and upholding a society where all individuals can feel safe and included.
3. Showcasing Germany's Growth and Resilience
In the years since World War II, Germany has evolved into a thriving democracy, boasting a multicultural population. By incorporating anti-Semitism countermeasures into its constitutional framework, it would send a strong message that the nation remains vigilant against these pernicious forces, as well as underscoring its resilience.
4. Human Rights Pillar
Combating anti-Semitism aligns with the United Nations' human rights doctrine, which upholds the principle of equal treatment and non-discrimination. In 2017, the UN General Assembly adopted the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, affirming its commitment to ensure the protection of human rights and dignity. This includes guarding against prejudice, intolerance, and hate speech.
As a global leader in matters of human rights, Germany stands to further its international standing if it transforms its commitment to fighting anti-Semitism into a constitutionally enshrined policy.
5. Encouraging Inclusion
In her address to the European Parliament, Mijatović emphasized the need for EU members to tackle discrimination, specifically acknowledging "racism, xenophobia, antisemitism, and islamophobia." Anti-Semitism can be particularly divisive, dividing communities and fostering a climate that discourages participation and contributions from those affected by this type of prejudice. By actively addressing and working to eradicate anti-Semitism, Berlin encourages an open, inclusive society that welcomes all its citizens regardless of their religion or ethnicity.
6. Empowering Community Leaders
By articulating a clear local stance against anti-Semitism, Berlin could empower community leaders, organizations, and individuals to organize and take action against hate speech and discrimination. This grassroots approach can lead to a more sustainable and broadly supported cultural transformation, enabling the whole city to realize the benefits of a society where all citizens feel valued and included.
References: [1] "UN Action Plan to Monitor Antisemitism and Enhance a System-wide Response." UN.org. United Nations, 15 July 2019. Web. 28 Jan. 2023. . [2] "Germany Ramps Up Efforts to Combat Antisemitism." DW.com. Deutsche Welle, 10 May 2019. Web. 28 Jan. 2023. . [3] "Berlin: Anti-Semitism in Schools and on the Streets." Welt.de. Axel Springer SE, 24 Jan. 2022. Web. 28 Jan. 2023. .
