CSD Attack in Berlin: Prien Signals More Money Against Radicalization

Federal Family Minister Karin Prien has indicated a willingness to provide additional funds to German states for deradicalization initiatives, following a deadly attack at Berlin's Christopher Street Day (CSD) event. Prien proposed channeling five million euros from the "Demokratie leben!" (Democracy Lives!) funding program, which was not initially earmarked for this purpose, towards these efforts.

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I could very well imagine using this amount.

Prien stated that the shocking attack, where an Islamist fatally injured one woman and seriously wounded approximately 30 others, serves as a catalyst to refine the "Demokratie leben!" program's focus on extremism prevention, specifically emphasizing deradicalization. She plans to consult with state governments, associations, and Muslim communities on this matter.

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For me, this shocking attack is reason to sharpen the focus of 'Demokratie leben!' on extremism prevention and to focus on the topic of deradicalization.

The minister highlighted that deradicalization programs aim to guide young people away from radical ideologies through intensive counseling. While scientific evaluations suggest these programs can be successful, Prien cautioned that their effectiveness depends on the individual's openness to change. For individuals as deeply radicalized as the CSD attacker, she noted, deradicalization programs might be less effective than measures involving the justice system, surveillance, and security protocols.

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If young people are so strongly radicalized, then a deradicalization program is probably not the method of choice. Then it is more about criminal justice, surveillance, and protective measures.

Prien also addressed criticism regarding the realignment of the "Demokratie leben!" program, which supports initiatives promoting diversity, democracy, and combating extremism. Some members of the queer community have expressed concern over reduced funding for counseling services. Prien clarified that funds for protection concepts in municipalities, including for queer groups, remain available through "Partnerships for Democracy." She refuted claims that the federal government would cease supporting queer activities, asserting that the needs of minorities, including the queer community, are still being considered, even as the program seeks to support new initiatives.

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The assertion that the federal government would 'no longer support queer activities' is simply false.