Migrant helpers in Germany face rising threats and abuse

In Meissen, a town in eastern Germany, people helping immigrants are facing increasing threats and hostility. Incidents of bullying against immigrant children have risen, and the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has become very influential in the area. This political shift has created a tense environment for both migrants and those who support them. Children from refugee families often endure bullying. Some face verbal abuse, while physical confrontations are becoming more commonplace. Staff from a social welfare provider, Diakonie, report that the atmosphere has grown more aggressive. They note that the rise of the far-right has polarized discussions on immigration and integration. Kerstin Böttger, a migrant counsellor, shares concerns about the escalating danger for immigrants. She says people are now expressing anti-migrant views more openly than before. Some workers are even afraid to tell friends about their jobs due to the backlash they face. Support workers are also dealing with threats. They receive hostile letters and face disrespect in their communities. Nora Köhler, a Diakonie spokeswoman, mentions that staff members often feel a need to justify their work. Many avoid discussing their positions openly to avoid confrontation. The situation is complicated by financial struggles within these organizations. In Saxony, budget constraints have limited resources, even as the number of people seeking help increases. Staff workloads have intensified, forcing some to implement appointment systems and maintain waiting lists. Böttger highlights the need for better financial support for organizations that assist migrants. With stagnant funding, they struggle to provide essential services. She emphasizes that while they are expected to support immigrants, they also deserve consistent support in their important work.