Felix Klein, the federal government’s anti‑Semitism Commissioner, will leave his post this summer to focus on a new endeavour. “After almost eight years in this office and an additional four in the Foreign Service dealing with antisemitism and Holocaust remembrance, I felt it was time to turn to a new professional challenge” he told the “Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung”.
Klein, a career diplomat, explained that his background and the rotation system at the Foreign Office-where assignments typically change every four years-helped shape his view that continuity matters, yet that fresh perspectives are also beneficial. “Being a civil servant in this political role, setting up new structures, and being the first in this office was particularly special” he added.
He noted that few positions place someone at the heart of societal debates as his do. “Combating antisemitism cuts across all ministries. Throughout my tenure I worked with every federal ministry, discussed projects, and fought antisemitism” he said. “That work inevitably sparks controversy. I believe one cannot perform this role quietly; if change is required, one must also speak up loudly. That is what I have tried to do”.
Klein has not yet announced his successor. “Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt has told me he will personally oversee the succession” he said. “There are strong candidates, and I am confident the government will make a good choice. Crucially, the successor must have the support of the Central Council of Jews-otherwise the office cannot be effectively fulfilled”.