Saxony-Anhalt increases security for Jewish communities: new contract!

Saxony-Anhalt increases security for Jewish communities: new contract!

The security of the Jewish communities in Saxony-Anhalt is on the state government's agenda. On July 11, 2025, Prime Minister Reiner Haseloff (CDU) signed an amending state treaty together with the leaders of the Jewish communities to strengthen the protection of synagogues and Jewish communities. This initiative takes place in view of the planned new buildings in Magdeburg and Dessau-Roßlau as well as increasing costs for security measures. mz.de reports that ...

The new agreement sets an example: the previous annual sum of 50,000 euros per synagogue, which was earmarked for guard costs, will be increased from 2027. This ensures that this amount is adjusted to the increasing salaries of civil servants. In addition, the contract period was extended from five to ten years, which enables the Jewish communities to plan for the long term. There are currently four Jewish communities in Saxony-Anhalt, including Dessau-Roßlau, which underlines the regional importance of this initiative. meine-kirchenzeitung.de highlights that…

Background of the initiative

The need for these changes was particularly brought to attention by the attack on the synagogue in Halle in 2019. This anti-Semitic terrorist attack revealed that there were significant security deficiencies, such as inadequate physical security and a lack of police presence during important Jewish holidays. Mediendienst Integration describes that...

As a second anniversary of the attack approaches, many communities report that they are often left with the costs. The state's previous investments in security have not always been successful, and the promised funds are only flowing slowly. This situation highlights the need to improve security and protect the rights of the Jewish community.

Future challenges and measures

Although the agreed measures are a step in the right direction, challenges remain. Experts repeatedly emphasize that the protection of synagogues is inconsistent and often inadequate. It is important that the Jewish communities not only rely on state aid, but also develop and implement internal security concepts. Going forward, it will be crucial to build trust between the Jewish community and security authorities to create a safe environment for everyone.

The latest developments show that Saxony-Anhalt is working on a comprehensive solution. The hope is that the new regulations will not only strengthen the protection of synagogues, but also promote coexistence in the region and restore trust in the state authorities.