In a significant move reminiscent of past actions by the Trump administration, Berlin’s government, led by Kai Wegner (CDU), is set to deport four pro-Palestinian activists. The four, who have received orders to exit Germany by April 21, include Shane O’Brien and Roberta Murray, both Irish citizens, Polish national Kasia Wlaszczyk, and American Cooper Longbottom, who holds a student visa. Despite their activism, none have faced criminal convictions; their actions centre primarily on participating in demonstrations expressing pro-Palestinian sentiments.
The deportation orders claim these individuals pose a “current danger for public safety and order,” echoing similar rhetoric used to justify actions against protesters in the United States. Critically, the Berlin Senate has been unable to substantiate claims that these activists support Hamas or antisemitism. The accusations stem largely from their involvement in protests using the slogan, “from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,” a phrase that German courts have deemed mostly protected under free speech.
Adding to the irony, Mayor Wegner has been reluctant to denounce antisemitism in high-profile instances, such as Elon Musk’s social media conduct. Although a response to a deportation proposal highlighted its illegality due to the absence of convictions, political interference led by an SPD appointee has overridden legal concerns. For Longbottom, an impending deportation not only threatens his home but also jeopardises his academic pursuits at Alice Salomon University.
Trans individuals Longbottom and Wlaszczyk are additionally exposed to the risks associated with returning to their respective home countries, which exhibit queerphobic policies. This deportation strategy contradicts Germany’s supposed commitment to human rights, especially in light of recent assertions by the German government providing refuge to researchers from oppressive regimes.
The activists express concern regarding Germany’s unwavering support for Israel through the concept of Staatsräson, which prioritises the state’s interests over democratic norms and legal responsibilities, despite evident human rights violations by Israel. Moreover, recent restrictions on protests signify a worrisome trend towards stifling dissent against state-sanctioned actions. This escalation marks a troubling phase in the liberties afforded to pro-Palestinian advocates in Germany, drawing minimal coverage in local media while garnering more attention in international outlets.
Berlin plans to deport four pro-Palestinian activists, citing public safety threats despite no criminal convictions. Their deportation orders echo Trump-era tactics, without substantial evidence of unlawful behaviour. With growing concern over free speech, the case highlights Germany’s support for Israel, calling into question its commitment to human rights and democratic principles.
The deportation of four pro-Palestinian activists from Berlin reflects a worrying trend of governmental overreach and suppression of dissenting voices. Despite the lack of criminal convictions, the government claims they endanger public order, using the controversial Staatsräson doctrine to justify actions against activists. This situation raises significant concerns about the protection of democratic rights and the implications for free speech and human rights in Germany.
Original Source: www.leftvoice.org
