Klein Advocates for Antisemitism Commissioner in Berlin Higher Education

Felix Klein, the Federal Commissioner for the Fight Against Antisemitism, has reiterated his call for the appointment of an Antisemitism Commissioner for all universities in Berlin. This demand follows a series of protests and disruptions caused by pro-Palestinian activists at various institutions, including a recent incident at Humboldt University.

Klein emphasized the urgency of this issue in light of the increasing disturbances and the involvement of law enforcement at educational establishments. He expressed that the current climate is intolerable for Jewish students and others who prioritize a disruption-free learning environment.

Previously, Klein had discussed the necessity of establishing a dedicated position at the Senate level during meetings of the Enquete Commission on Discrimination, chaired by Raed Saleh, the head of the SPD parliamentary group. He advocates for a central coordinator to streamline the efforts of antisemitism representatives across universities, focusing on developing comprehensive strategies and guidelines.

In light of recent events, Berlin's CDU parliamentary leader, Dirk Stettner, has called for prompt action regarding the establishment of this position. He pointed out that while there is an agreement within the Senate regarding the necessity of an Antisemitism Commissioner, implementation has yet to be realized. The Senate's science administration has confirmed that discussions about the appointment are ongoing, but no conclusion has been reached.

Stettner stressed the need for a citywide strategy to effectively address antisemitic incidents at universities. He urged for a clear definition of what constitutes scholarly discourse and freedom of expression versus antisemitism and hatred toward Jews. He highlighted the importance of a consistent approach across all universities, asserting that the principles governing freedom of expression and academic liberty should not differ between institutions.

The ongoing tension surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has intensified discussions at Berlin universities, where expressions of solidarity with Palestine have sometimes crossed into open hostility toward Jewish students. These dynamics have raised significant concerns about the safety and well-being of Jewish individuals within academic settings.

As the semester approaches, Klein and other advocates are calling for immediate action to ensure that all students can learn in an environment free from discrimination and hostility. They stress the importance of having a designated authority to address and manage antisemitism in educational contexts effectively.