Delegitimising political commitment distracts from the real problem
At present a debate is being provoked about funding for projects against antisemitism. In doing so, it is accepted that the real problem is being lost from sight: in Germany, Jew-hatred is experiencing a historic escalation. The Berlin Senate has taken responsibility and resolutely provided funds in order to strengthen civil society in the fight against antisemitism and extremism – a necessary and morally right step at a time when Jewish life, and with it our democracy, is once again under pressure. When there is a fire, pragmatism is needed – and there is a fire!
The chairman of the WerteInitiative, Elio Adler, on this: “The impression suggests itself that a campaign is being run here. Evidently the aim is to conduct a pre-election campaign and to pursue party-political self-promotion on the backs of those who oppose every form of antisemitism.”
Antisemitism is escalating – the reality is distressing
Since 7 October 2023 we have been experiencing a shocking rise in antisemitic agitation, violence and trivialisation in Germany. Jews are threatened in the open street, schools and synagogues have to operate under massive security precautions, and in many social milieus the terror of Hamas is relativised or even defended.
The reality is clear: antisemitism has long ceased to be a fringe phenomenon; it is penetrating deep into the centre of society and has even become politically acceptable. The number of antisemitic criminal offences is higher than at any time since the end of the Shoah.
Not a political luxury, but a moral imperative
The decision to distribute funding pragmatically was not a (party-)political luxury, but a moral imperative.
When social peace is under threat, the administration must not become an obstacle.
An appeal to reason and responsibility
Adler continues: “The WerteInitiative urgently appeals to politicians, the media and the public not to lose sight of what this is really about: the protection of Jewish life in the midst of our free and democratic society.”
The pragmatic funding of projects against antisemitism was and is necessary, legitimate and morally imperative. It deserves support – not political scandalising.
