Claudia Pechstein. Photo: Michael Kappeler
The speech by the conservative politician Claudia Pechstein caused resentment in Germany because it was linked, albeit indirectly, to National Socialism. Dressed in police uniform, she advocated tougher antiimmigration measures and a “traditional” family model. With information from Folha de S.Paulo.
Pechstein was not only a police officer and former Bundestag candidate for the centreright party, but also a speed skater and is one of the most wellknown German athletes of recent times.
“I speak often to my fellow police officers and we all agree that we need to help those who need help. But when people come here, they apply for asylum, and a judge decides that they don’t have that right, so I don’t understand why they stay here,” the former athlete said during an event hosted by the CDU state conservative party.
The police officer linked illegal immigrants in Germany to crime. “Solving this problem would bring more security to people’s everyday lives. “Using public transport and looking around is a problem that affects the everyday life of many, especially older women,” he shot.
Pechstein’s speeches, and in particular his decision to attend a political event in uniform, sparked controversy in Germany. The country is witnessing a new wave of the rise of the far right, and any reference to the Nazi past provokes violent reactions.
Leftwing politicians, activists and part of the German press considered the statements biased and racist.
Pechstein also used the speech to defend the concept of a “traditional” family consisting of a man and a woman. “An intact family is still a role model for most Germans. The country’s children have to struggle with many problems and therefore not only want a good job, but also a traditional family with mother and father. Above all, the CDU politicians must take care of this traditional family,” he said.
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