taz.de
German Initiative Prevents Deportations in Far-Right Stronghold
In Eberswalde, Germany, the Bürger*innenasyl Barnim initiative prevented 28 deportations, including 10 children, in the past year, demonstrating local resistance to restrictive immigration policies in a county with significant far-right support.
- What is the impact of Bürger*innenasyl Barnim's actions on the lives of those facing deportation in Eberswalde?
- In Eberswalde, Germany, a citizens' initiative called Bürger*innenasyl Barnim has prevented 28 deportations in the past year, including 10 children. This success occurred in Barnim, a county where the AfD party received the most votes in the recent federal election, demonstrating the impact of local activism despite a challenging political climate. The initiative provides housing, support, and advocacy for those facing deportation.
- How does the work of Bürger*innenasyl Barnim challenge the prevailing political narrative surrounding immigration in Germany?
- Bürger*innenasyl Barnim's work highlights the significant role of grassroots movements in mitigating the effects of restrictive immigration policies. By providing practical support and challenging negative narratives, they create safe havens and demonstrate solidarity. Their actions counter the national political trend and offer a local example of resistance to the rise of far-right political forces.
- What are the potential long-term challenges and opportunities for Bürger*innenasyl Barnim, given the political climate and the increasing demand for their services?
- The success of Bürger*innenasyl Barnim suggests that local initiatives can effectively resist restrictive immigration policies, even in areas with strong far-right support. Their continued work may inspire similar actions and could influence broader discussions about immigration and asylum policies. However, the group faces increasing challenges, including rising demand for their services and potential for increased harassment.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing of the article is overwhelmingly positive towards the Bürger*innenasyl Barnim initiative. The headline itself, "Stell dir vor, es soll abgeschoben werden und keiner macht mit" (Imagine, they should be deported and no one participates), sets a tone of admiration for the initiative's success in preventing deportations. The article consistently highlights the initiative's achievements and the positive impact it has on the lives of those it helps, while downplaying potential negative aspects or counterarguments. This positive framing might lead readers to overlook potential complexities or limitations of the initiative's approach.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral, although the choice of words like "Schutz" (protection), "Zuflucht" (refuge), and "Solidarität" (solidarity) carries positive connotations. While these words are appropriate given the context, the repeated emphasis on positive terms might subtly skew the overall perception of the initiative. The description of the AfD's actions as "Spiel mit der Angst" (playing with fear) is a loaded phrase that suggests a negative intent. A more neutral alternative could be "attempts to manipulate public fears.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the successes of the Bürger*innenasyl Barnim initiative and the solidarity it has fostered within the community. However, it omits discussion of potential criticisms or challenges faced by the initiative, such as potential legal repercussions or negative reactions from those opposed to their actions. While acknowledging space constraints is important, including counterpoints would provide a more balanced perspective.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified dichotomy between the solidarity shown by the Bürger*innenasyl Barnim initiative and the rising right-wing sentiment in the region. While acknowledging the presence of the AfD and potential threats, it doesn't fully explore the complexities of public opinion or the existence of diverse perspectives within the community. The narrative leans towards portraying a clear-cut opposition between the initiative and those who might oppose it.
Sustainable Development Goals
The initiative helps prevent the impoverishment of asylum seekers by providing them with shelter, living expenses, and support, thus contributing to poverty reduction.