Berlin’s Police Chief, Barbara Slowik, has raised serious alarms about growing threats to Jews and homosexuals in the city, saying that they are no long safe.
In an interview with Berliner Zeitung, she warned that these groups face increasing risks, especially in neighborhoods with large Arab populations, amid rising anti-Semitic crimes and protests. Slowik stated that while Berlin is generally safe, some areas require heightened vigilance. She advised people wearing yarmulkes or identifying as gay or lesbian to be cautious, acknowledging that “there are no no-go areas,” but caution is needed in certain public spaces.
Slowik highlighted the rise in anti-Semitic incidents, with over 6,200 investigations initiated since October 2023, many involving hate speech, property damage, and violent acts directed at police officers. She expressed concern about the fear growing within the Jewish community, given the spike in crimes.
The city has also seen daily protests against Israel since the October 2023 Hamas attack, and Slowik spoke about the challenges of policing these demonstrations. Despite some protests turning violent, most gatherings are peaceful, though they often feature disturbing slogans. While demonstrations are protected under German law, the police have struggled with enforcement, banning only a handful of gatherings that celebrated violence.
Adding to the strain on law enforcement, Slowik discussed the severe budget shortfalls facing Berlin’s police force, which is struggling to maintain operations. The police force’s investments for 2024 were slashed, with crucial funds for technology upgrades like AI-driven video surveillance significantly reduced. Slowik pointed out the poor state of police infrastructure and vehicles, revealing a growing backlog in renovations and vehicles in need of urgent repairs.
Despite these challenges, Slowik’s comments underscore the mounting pressure on Berlin’s police, who are fighting rising crime and intolerance with fewer resources, all while dealing with the social and financial repercussions of the city’s ongoing security issues.
