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Internal Security (May 22, 2006)

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In the preamble of the coalition agreement between CDU/CSU and SPD it says that “Tolerance and openness are the hallmarks of a liberal society. Extremism, racism, and anti-Semitism must not be tolerated.” This sets the guidelines for the policies of the federal government: we are fighting xenophobia and every form of extremism with the utmost diligence in support of freedom, democracy, and tolerance.

It would be inadequate to rely solely on repressive measures to combat right-wing extremism. The public, especially young people, must learn how to deal with right-wing extremist subject matter. Therefore, political discourse and social education must be given priority.

Regrettably, there is no ideal solution for preventing extremist ideology. It is certain, however, that not only the state but also all its citizens are called upon to take a courageous and engaged stance when it comes to preventing anti-constitutional statements and actions. We cannot be successful unless we get all of civil society involved.

[ . . . ]



Source: Speech by Interior Minister Wolfgang Schäuble on Occasion of the Presentation of the 2005 Report on the Protection of the Constitution on May 22, 2006, in Berlin, http://www.bmi.bund.de.

Translation: Allison Brown

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