AIB appeal for the Bundestag elections

The Council is deeply concerned and disappointed by the statements and positions of leading politicians from democratic parties, which are increasingly shifting the boundaries between the values of established parties and far-right movements. This development leads the Council to fear that the political center and thus the stability of Germany is coming under pressure.

In this atmosphere, people with a history of migration feel increasingly insecure and worried. Racist remarks and exclusionary statements, which can be heard with increasing frequency in the public debate, fail to achieve the goal of advocating open-minded and respectful coexistence.

The Council warns that this development could lead to indirect emigration in the long term or to a lack of immigration - which is necessary from a purely economic perspective - if people are made to feel that they are not welcome in Germany. This is not only morally reprehensible, but also dangerous for the social climate, in which hostility and exclusion are increasingly becoming part of everyday life. Our society should stand up for an open and diverse society with firm convictions and values.

The way migration is discussed in Germany is already leading to workers from abroad being unsettled or deterred because they do not feel safe or welcome here. This poses a serious risk to our economic development, which is increasingly suffering from a shortage of skilled workers. It also puts pressure on our social systems if there is a lack of important workers and skilled workers as contributors who are faced with an increasing number of older people.

All political players should reconsider the basic principles of democracy, human rights and tolerance . Every person who comes to Germany should feel welcome here.

Since the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, several Syrians are considering returning. However, in view of the ongoing fighting, especially in northern Syria, it is essential that we do not focus on the question of return. Rather, we should think about how we can keep these people who have become an active part of this society.

Of course, the decision on who is allowed to live in Germany lies with the relevant authorities, who must decide on the basis of the applicable laws and procedures. But the political responsibility lies with all of us: We must prevent political programs and public discourse from being shaped by fear and exclusion.

We have noted with great concern the proposal to revoke citizenship. This is not only legally and morally questionable, but also a dangerous development that could be misused, especially in times of growing right-wing extremism. Immigrants who receive German citizenship have often worked hard for years to achieve this and have proven their success in integrating at the end of the process. Naturalized citizens have become part of this society and deserve to be recognized as equal citizens with full rights and obligations.

Nevertheless, many experience racism and exclusion. They get the impression that, despite their formal affiliation, they are never really perceived as equals. Developments such as Donald Trump's current policies in the USA show how quickly basic democratic values can be undermined. This should be a warning to us. A democracy that begins to arbitrarily take away rights opens the door to discrimination and division. Instead, we must strengthen our democratic principles and resist all forms of exclusion.

At the same time, we are concerned that naturalized immigrants are also voting for far-right parties without being aware of the consequences. It is often overlooked that this decision can make them themselves a target of far-right forces - a paradoxical situation in which their political choice potentially makes them a target of those who reject their origin and identity.

We therefore call on all democratic parties to make their election manifestos clear and transparent and not succumb to the temptation to adopt populist and right-wing populist rhetoric.

Democracy is not just about winning elections, but above all about preserving the democratic consensus andmaking our society a place of peace, respect and solidarity.