Germany’s anti-Semitism commissioner, Felix Klein, says understanding and acknowledging the crimes of the Nazi era is essential for immigrants to fully integrate into German society.
“We need to engage those who live here in the culture of remembrance because only then can they successfully integrate into our society,’’ Mr Klein told dpa in an interview.
This need, Mr Klein stressed, is particularly significant for people arriving from the Arab world or Muslim-majority countries.
The anti-Semitism commissioner noted that many newcomers often ask, “What does this have to do with us?’’
Mr Klein argued that knowledge of German history remained critical for understanding the country’s past and interpreting its foreign policy decisions.
Mr Klein highlighted the complexities of Germany’s relationship with Israel, which he said could be challenging to explain to those from Arab states or Muslim-majority nations.
“It’s important to say: You have to know the history of this country in order to be able to understand the relationship between Germany and Israel,” Mr Klein stressed.
As the government’s anti-Semitism commissioner, Mr Klein maintains close ties with Israel.
However, he acknowledged that Germany’s relationship with Israel has challenges.
“There are statements by Israeli ministers that are absolutely unacceptable and also violate international law,’’ Mr Klein said.
Mr Klein cited as an example comments by Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich, who suggested starving the Palestinian population in the Gaza Strip.
Mr Klein praised German leaders, including Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, for firmly rejecting such rhetoric.
Mr Klein expected fewer anti-Semitic crimes in Germany following the Gaza ceasefire and Israeli hostages’ release, as seen after past conflicts.
However, he noted that the “anti-Israel milieu’’ would likely remain.
According to the German government, 3,931 crimes related to the Middle East conflict were recorded in the first nine months of 2024, according to preliminary figures.
Out of these, 1,536 crimes were classified as anti-Semitic.
(dpa/NAN)
