Rising Far-Right Threat in Germany Alarms Jewish Community Ahead of Regional Elections

Felix Klein, Germany's outgoing commissioner for combating antisemitism, warned that a significant electoral success by the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party could prompt many Jewish families to leave the country. In an interview with the newspaper "Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger," Klein expressed deep concern about the possibility of far-right political forces gaining governmental power at the state level in the upcoming regional elections. He highlighted a sharp deterioration in the situation for Jews in Germany in recent years, citing a record high of over 6,000 antisemitic incidents last year, particularly around the October 7 attack and the subsequent war.

Despite these challenges, Klein noted that trust in the central political leadership remains relatively stable, and many Jews worldwide continue to show active interest in acquiring German citizenship. As he concludes nearly a decade in his role since 2018 and prepares to become Germany's ambassador to the OECD in Paris, Klein called for stricter government measures. He urged tougher criminal penalties against antisemitic acts and support for terrorist organizations, including prison sentences for public displays of solidarity with Hamas and deportation of foreigners involved.

Klein also demanded expanded enforcement powers for customs authorities to prevent terror financing, integration of antisemitism combat into teacher training, and the positive inclusion of Jewish life history in school curricula. His recommendations aim to strengthen Germany's response to rising antisemitism and protect its Jewish community amid growing far-right political influence.