Defending human rights means protecting democracy
The human rights organization Pro Asyl, with which Terre Des Hommes has been working closely for the right -wing refugees for many years, is currently exposed to a massive defamation campaign. The occasion is the legal support that Pro Asyl has provided for several refugees about his legal aid fund, which were illegally rejected at the German border. The Berlin Administrative Court has confirmed that these people were denied access to an asylum procedure - a clear violation of applicable law.
“It should not be that non -governmental organizations that draw attention to human rights violations and are committed to the preservation of the rule of law in Germany are intimidated by media campaigns. This development endangers democracy, which includes a strong and independent civil society, «explains Joshua Hofert, board spokesman for Terre Des Hommes .
In the past few days, various media and politicians have made a mood against pro asylum - among other things with the baseless allegation of aid. In social networks, insults and hate messages are piling up against the organization and its supporters.
We judge these attacks. It is alarming if civil society commitment to human rights and the rule of law is to be discredited and intimidated by targeted campaigns. Anyone who works for fundamental rights acts in the sense of our constitution and contributes to preserving our democratic coexistence. It is the obligation of non -governmental organizations to name grievances, enforce rights and support those affected.
We ask the federal government to immediately end the breach of law at the borders, to contribute to a factual debate and to ensure compliance with the rule of law.