State parliament - Black-Red back racism commission
A Commission of Inquiry is to engage with the question of what measures can be taken in Berlin against Racism, Antisemitism, and Islamophobia. A corresponding motion from the CDU- and SPD-faction was discussed at the last plenary session of the parliament before the summer break in the House of Representatives. The Commission is to consist of 23 members, who are to be elected by the House. Members of parliament as well as external experts are eligible for selection.
The Commission is to examine the various forms of Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Racism, review existing measures for their effectiveness in combating them, and make recommendations for improvement and further development. A preliminary report is planned for 2025, followed by a final report in the following year.
Criticism from the Opposition
The Greens criticized that the mandate for the Commission was too vague, and accused Schwarz-Rot of not involving the opposition so far. The Left agreed and directed this criticism mainly at the CDU. The motion to establish the Commission was also submitted without consultation with civil society.
The previous actions of the black-red Senate provide little reason for hope. They are mostly symbolic politics. The Left and Greens intend to submit a joint amending motion with improvement proposals. The AfD views the plans for the Commission critically in principle. The motion is now to be discussed first in the relevant committees.
An Enquete-Commission can be set up by the parliament to prepare decisions on particularly extensive or complex matters. Upon completion of its work, the Commission presents its results in a report to the parliament.
- The CDU and SPD factions in the State parliament proposed the establishment of a Study Commission to tackle Racism, Antisemitism, and Islamophobia in Berlin.
- Despite the CDU's involvement, the Greens and the Left criticized the lack of clarity in the Commission's mandate and accused them of not consulting the opposition and civil society.
- The Anti-Discrimination Commission, composed of 23 members, will examine various forms of Racism, Antisemitism, and Islamophobia, assess existing measures, and propose improvements.
- The SPD and the Greens intend to submit a joint amending motion with improvements for the Commission, while the AfD has a critical view towards the plans in principle.
- The House of Representatives' Enquete-Commission will investigate the issue, present its findings in a report, and contribute to shaping policies to combat Hostility towards Muslims and Racism, including Anti-Semitism in Berlin.
