German Church Leader Demands Parties Reject Antisemitism

Kirsten Fehrs, the presiding bishop of the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD), has called for political parties to clearly distance themselves from individuals expressing antisemitic views. Speaking at the EKD Synod in Würzburg, Fehrs stated, "It is not a question that a party that wants to assume governmental responsibility must clearly distance itself from people who hold antisemitic positions." This statement comes amid discussions about the formation of a government in Berlin, potentially involving the Left Party.

The controversy centers on the Left Party's handling of its Berlin representative, Vanessa Emde, who has refused to resign her seat despite pressure from her party's leadership. Emde is accused of denying Israel's right to exist, a stance that has sparked debate for weeks. She was elected to the Berlin House of Representatives on September 20.

Fehrs emphasized that the EKD applies the same standards to all parties, asserting that "human dignity, democracy, and protection from discrimination are non-negotiable. And antisemitism fundamentally contradicts the Christian faith, and we resolutely oppose it." The EKD distinguishes between the actions of individuals and the overall positions and decisions of a political party.

The EKD Synod, the church's parliament representing nearly 17.4 million members, is holding its 7th session of the 13th Synod in Würzburg until November 11. The event, themed "Together Further, Church as a Workshop for Democracy Education and Intergenerational Learning as an Expression of Lived Faith," will host Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier as a guest on Tuesday.