Before the election campaign for the federal election on February 23, parties are making preparations for the safety of their election campaigners. We take the safety of our members and election campaigners “very seriously”, said an SPD spokesperson to taz (Tuesday edition).
At the SPD’s headquarters, the Willy-Brandt-House, a hotline will be set up where incidents can be reported. Additionally, training sessions on de-escalation, protecting events, and handling hate on the internet will take place. Placard actions or information stands should not be held alone, but with a minimum number of participants, explained the SPD spokesperson. Furthermore, “clear agreements” need to be made with local law enforcement agencies. They should also be informed in advance of larger events.
Only last weekend, an attack by suspected right-wing extremists on a SPD representative in Berlin-Lichterfelde occurred. The victim had to be treated in a hospital and three of the suspects have been issued with arrest warrants by an investigating judge.
A CDU spokesperson also said that the safety of her party’s election campaigners has “top priority”. The party is currently sensitizing its members to physical and verbal violence through training and information sessions. It is also in contact with the state associations to discuss specific security issues on the ground.
A Green spokesperson announced “high security measures” for the election campaign. Training sessions are also being held. For events, the party is working with the police, setting up safety zones, and establishing distance rules.
Link’s federal executive director, Janis Ehling, told taz that “sensitization of the party’s members is particularly necessary right now”. In the federal office, there is a contact address where incidents can be reported. “In cases of threats or damage to materials, we advise members to call the police and file a complaint”, Ehling said. Election campaigners are recommended to look at the party’s guidelines against right-wing extremism and “internalize” them, said the Link’s federal executive director. “We are an anti-fascist party and will not be intimidated or hide.