Right-wing extremist attacks on social workers: An alarming trend in MV!

Right-wing extremist attacks on social workers: An alarming trend in MV!

In recent years, right-wing extremism has increased in Germany and Europe, particularly in social institutions. A current study from Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, which was carried out in cooperation with the Friedrich Ebert Foundation at the Neubrandenburg University of Applied Sciences, shows worrying trends. Loud NDR 80% of professionals in social institutions experienced right-wing extremist activities last year. These incidents range from the sighting of symbols in public spaces to insults and threats that significantly impact the working atmosphere.

The increase in such incidents is particularly noticeable. Almost half of those surveyed reported an increase in the last ten years. While some symbols are widespread in the right-wing scene, the question of their criminal relevance arises. It is worrying to learn that right-wing extremist groups are trying to specifically influence vulnerable groups, such as homeless people or children and young people. These activities could be strengthened through our own offers and events.

Need for further education and training opportunities

The authors of the study call for comprehensive training and further education offers for specialists in social institutions. The need is clear – only a third of those surveyed currently take advantage of such offers on a regular basis. Better cooperation with the police and state security is also required in order to offer those affected more protection. Those responsible for politics should position themselves clearly, especially in public appearances and when awarding funding.

The study does not only affect the current situation in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. How HS Neubrandenburg notes, there is also an increasing influence of new right and right-wing extremist ways of thinking and acting in other federal states and at the European level, which also affects social work. There has so far been no systematic study of these influences. Aim of a research project led by Prof. Dr. Christine Krüger's task is to shed more light on the specific challenges in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.

Insights into research

The research project follows a mixed methods approach. This included online surveys and qualitative interviews in 2020. Comparison with a previously conducted study on the New Right in North Rhine-Westphalia could help to identify differences and similarities. This comprehensive study is supported by research assistants and aims to gain insights into the influence of extreme right-wing actors on social work.

The results could not only influence social work in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, but also in other federal states. How TH Cologne reports, various studies deal with the question of how social work is integrated into social developments and whether there are already offers or influence from right-wing extremist groups.

An upcoming specialist day will present the results and findings and invites practical experts and interested parties to the discussion. A good hand in combating these dangers is required, as the proportion of right-wing extremist crimes in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania has reached a new high. It is time to take clear action and decisively confront the extreme right.