Former antisemitism commissioner advises CDU on action plan

Stefan Hensel, Hamburg's former antisemitism commissioner, has sharply criticized the city's current red-green Senate for its perceived lack of commitment in combating antisemitism. Hensel stated that there is a significant gap between public declarations and decisions, and the actual implementation of measures.

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I resigned from my post as antisemitism commissioner because necessary measures were not implemented.

"I resigned from my post as antisemitism commissioner because necessary measures were not implemented," Hensel explained at a press conference hosted by the CDU. He announced that he will be advising the CDU in the coming months on developing an action plan to combat antisemitism in Hamburg. "Hamburg can no longer afford this," he added, emphasizing that the challenges are significant but solvable with political will.

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Hamburg can no longer afford this.

CDU parliamentary group leader Dennis Thering confirmed that Hensel will provide pro bono advice for the next four months. Thering highlighted that antisemitism is a "bitter reality" for many Jewish residents in Hamburg, while the Senate fails to implement key measures. The CDU's objective is to develop an action plan that will "make Hamburg capable of action again," Thering stated. This plan includes establishing clear regulations for public spaces, enhancing security for Jewish institutions, increasing prevention efforts in schools, and ensuring consistent enforcement by the rule of law.

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Antisemitism is for many Jewish people in Hamburg long bitter reality.

Hensel's departure from his official role was reportedly due to the failure to implement crucial measures. He expressed that the city must address these issues with greater urgency and effectiveness. The CDU's initiative aims to fill this perceived void by proposing concrete steps and policies to counter rising antisemitism in the city.

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The goal of the CDU is to develop an action plan that makes Hamburg capable of action again.