Police Urged to Take Firm Action Against Violent Protests Over Görlitzer Park Fence
Mon 7th Apr, 2025
Concerns are escalating regarding the construction of a fence around Görlitzer Park in Kreuzberg, as opposition groups have begun sending threatening letters to companies contracted for the work. Berlin's Interior Secretary Christian Hochgrebe has assured that law enforcement will provide necessary protection to the construction firms and respond appropriately to any unrest. In light of the situation, the police plan to monitor the construction activities closely, adjusting their presence based on the evolving threat level. Hochgrebe emphasized that while creative forms of protest are acceptable in democratic discourse, intimidation and threats are not. The group 'Görli 24/7' has explicitly warned construction firms against participating in the fence installation, suggesting they will employ civil disobedience to disrupt the project. They have called on contractors to withdraw their bids, stating that they are prepared to engage in protests deemed necessary to prevent the fence from being built. The Berlin Senate has stated that the project is set to begin in June, with completion anticipated by December 20. The city-owned company Grün Berlin GmbH is overseeing the tendering process, which concluded on April 2. Hochgrebe indicated that, depending on how the situation unfolds, police presence may need to be significantly increased to ensure the safety of all parties involved. This series of events highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the park, where various protests have emerged in response to the planned fencing. Activists argue that the proposed measures will further alienate the community and undermine the park's accessibility. The Interior Secretary reiterated the importance of maintaining order while respecting the rights of individuals to express their dissent in lawful ways. The contentious nature of the debate reflects broader societal divisions over urban management and public space utilization, particularly in areas like Kreuzberg, where diverse opinions often clash. As the situation develops, authorities are tasked with balancing the enforcement of laws with the need for public engagement in city planning processes. The upcoming months are expected to be critical as construction efforts begin and local responses continue to evolve. Law enforcement's readiness to intervene will be pivotal in navigating this complex issue, ensuring that both safety and civic engagement are upheld during this period of heightened tension.
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