Defending human rights means protecting democracy
The human rights organization Pro Asyl, with which Terre des Hommes has worked closely for many years to advocate for the rights of refugee children, is currently facing a massive smear campaign. The reason is the legal support Pro Asyl provided through its legal aid fund to several refugees who were unlawfully turned back at the German border. The Berlin Administrative Court has confirmed that these individuals were denied access to asylum proceedings – a clear violation of applicable law.
“It cannot be that non-governmental organizations that draw attention to human rights violations and are committed to upholding 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, spokesperson for the board of Terre des Hommes .
In recent days, various media outlets and politicians have stirred up sentiment against Pro Asyl – including with the baseless accusation of aiding and abetting human smuggling. Insults and hate messages against the organization and its supporters are piling up on social media.
We condemn these attacks in the strongest possible terms. It is alarming when civil society engagement for human rights and the rule of law is targeted for discrediting and intimidation through smear campaigns. Those who stand up for fundamental rights act in accordance with our constitution and contribute to preserving our democratic society. It is the duty of non-governmental organizations to expose injustices, enforce rights, and support those affected.
We call on the Federal Government to immediately end the breach of law at the borders, to contribute to an objective debate and to ensure compliance with the rule of law.