SWC: German Justice Minister's Words Serve as a Beacon of Hope and a Call to Action Against the Alarming Rise of Anti-Semitism in Germany

December 18, 2023

The Simon Wiesenthal Center (SWC) applauds German Justice Minister Marco Buschmann for his powerful and unequivocal speech at the Jewish Community Day in Berlin. Minister Buschmann's words serve as a beacon of hope and a call to action against the alarming rise of anti-Semitism in Germany. 

With over 4,300 crimes related to the Middle East conflict registered in Germany since October 7, Minister Buschmann's assertion that the security of Jews must be integral to Germany's state policy and Germany’s “reason of state” is both timely and essential. His firm commitment to ensuring that Jewish citizens can live in peace and freedom within Germany is not only a matter of national responsibility but also a moral imperative that resonates with the values of the Simon Wiesenthal Center. 

“The Simon Wiesenthal Center applauds Minister of Justice Buschmann's speech. We hope his words will inspire all Germans, both in and out of government, to vigorously oppose the surge in anti-Semitism in the country and will inspire other leaders across the European Union and the Atlantic to be inspired by his words and actions,” declared Rabbi Abraham Cooper, SWC Associate Dean and Global Social Action Director.  

As we observe the efforts to promote Jewish life and the rebuilding of Jewish institutions in Germany, we are reminded that the fight against anti-Semitism is intertwined with the promotion of diverse and inclusive societies. “The vision shared by Minister Buschmann, where Jews can live without fear, speak Hebrew openly on the streets, and practice their faith freely, is a vision that the Simon Wiesenthal Center shares and strives towards,” said Daniel Schuster, SWC’s Senior Representative Europe. 

The SWC is particularly encouraged by Minister Buschmann's emphasis on the constitutional state's duty to protect its Jewish community and all its Jewish citizens, as well as his outright condemnation of anti-Semitism as a disgrace to society. His recognition of the need for rigorous application of criminal law against those who propagate hate and violence is a critical step towards creating a safer environment for the Jewish community. 

The Simon Wiesenthal Center remains committed to working with leaders like Minister Buschmann and all those dedicated to eradicating anti-Semitism and fostering a world where respect for diversity and human dignity prevails. 

The Simon Wiesenthal Center is an international Jewish human rights organization. It holds consultative status at the United Nations, UNESCO, the OSCE, the Council of Europe, the OAS, and the Latin American Parliament (PARLATINO).