The State Minister for Culture and Media, Wolfram Weimer, has expressed deep concern over the escalating levels of antisemitism in Germany, drawing parallels to the conditions of the 1930s. In an interview with “Bild” Weimer stated that the current antisemitism manifests from multiple directions, including the right-wing, left-wing and Islamist spheres.
He highlighted a particularly troubling situation within the cultural sector, where individuals of Jewish faith are facing discrimination and fear. Weimer described a climate of pervasive anxiety, citing instances where Jewish DJs and other performers are being denied engagements solely based on their religious identity. “They are being denied jobs simply because they are Jewish – this is blatant antisemitism and they are experiencing it constantly” he stated.
Weimer lamented that such actions are becoming increasingly normalized across Europe, referencing a reminiscent scenario where Jewish individuals are barred from performances and venues. He noted that criticism of Israel is often used as a pretext for the resurgence of antisemitic sentiments, allowing “all sorts of old faces of antisemitism” to surface.
Furthermore, Weimer voiced concerns about a perceived double standard in the response to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, observing that reactions often range from indifference to outrage depending on who initiates hostilities. The Minister’s remarks underscore a growing concern regarding the safety and acceptance of Jewish individuals within German society and the cultural landscape.
