Right-wing extremism - Anti-discrimination commissioner wants to promote democracy more
The Federal Anti-Discrimination Commissioner, Ferda Ataman, is urging for the swift passage of the planned legislation to promote democracy. "People often find it difficult to engage against discrimination and for democracy in rural areas," said Ataman during a visit to Spremberg in South Brandenburg. "People with anti-democratic attitudes sit in city councils and committees, deciding on funding and projects."
Peaceful coexistence initiatives are being harassed and threatened, and they are afraid that after the state elections, the money tap will be turned off for them, Ataman stated. "We cannot leave them alone in this. If states and municipalities no longer support local engagement because they are dominated by right-wing extremists, then the last hope for many is the Federal Government," she said. "The German Bundestag must therefore urgently pass the Democracy Promotion Law."
Commissioner praises anti-rights initiative
The traffic light parties have been arguing about such a project for several months now. Above all, the Greens are advocating for a law that secures the long-term funding of democracy projects. The FDP is also skeptical due to the strained budget situation.
Ataman visited as part of a summer trip the evangelical Spremberg parish. About a year ago, a firebomb was thrown at a rainbow flag that hung on the church bell tower. People had attended a film event for Christopher Street Day there.
Ataman praised the engagement of the initiative #unteilbar Spremberg, which fights against racism, antisemitism, sexism, and the extreme right. "Unteilbar is above all engagement, showing a face for democracy and against discrimination – something we naturally support wholeheartedly," she said.
- The incident of the firebombing at the Spremberg church, located in South Brandenburg, was a stark reminder of the prevalence of right-wing extremism in rural areas.
- Ferda Ataman, during her visit to Spremberg, expressed concerns about the presence of individuals with anti-democratic attitudes in local decision-making bodies.
- Ataman emphasized the importance of the German Bundestag passing the Democracy Promotion Law to provide support for initiatives combating discrimination and extremism in regions dominated by right-wing extremists.
- The evangelical Spremberg parish, despite facing threats and harassment, continues to advocate for unity and against discrimination, serving as a beacon of democracy in South Brandenburg.
- Ataman commended the efforts of the #unteilbar Spremberg initiative, which is dedicated to combating racism, antisemitism, sexism, and extremism, in upholding democracy and promoting inclusion in Germany.
- If states and municipalities cease supporting local engagement due to the influence of right-wing extremists, it could result in the decimation of the last bastion of hope for many who are fighting against discrimination in rural areas like South Brandenburg.
