Streich warns: Democracy under pressure – we must act now!

Streich warns: Democracy under pressure – we must act now!

Christian Streich, the well-known coach of SC Freiburg, took a clear position against anti-democratic currents in January 2024. At a major democracy event, he appealed to citizens to take an active stand against right-wing extremism. Streich uses his prominent position to promote openness, tolerance and diversity. In an interview before the University Medal was awarded at the Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, he described the responsibility of universities in times of “alternative truths” and called for them to stand up for human rights and diversity reports the University of Freiburg.

After the award ceremony, a panel discussion on the “Future of Democracy in Times of Endangerment” took place. The discussion participants, including Jun.-Prof. Dr. Elisabeth Piller and Dr. Christine Althauser, highlighted the challenges that are currently threatening democracy in Germany. In this context, Streich expressed his concern about political developments, in particular the CDU/CSU's tightened migration plans, and emphasized that democracy was under pressure said the SWR.

The call to defend democracy

Streich urged the listeners to stand up for democratic values ​​and show backbone. In his coaching career he has repeatedly taken a position against right-wing extremism and the AfD. He encouraged society to take responsibility and take a clear position, which also became clear during a demonstration against right-wing extremism in January 2024, which he took part in. There he warned of the rise of right-wing forces emphasizes the Federal Agency for Civic Education.

At a recent demonstration in Freiburg attended by 15,000 people, Streich expressed mixed feelings. He expressed both concern about the developments and encouragement from people's engagement. At the same time, he noted that in Freiburg he was not afraid to express his opinion, but recognized that in other regions many people might be afraid to express their views, especially because of their skin color.

Role of political education

The rise in right-wing extremist attitudes among the population is supported by current studies, which is why political education is seen as a central component of strategies to counter right-wing extremism. It is intended to promote the maturity of citizens and enable them to actively participate in the democratic process. In this way, democracy is strengthened and right-wing extremism is counteracted at the same time.

Civic education aims to strengthen people's ability to judge and act. In order to be effective, it must reconcile normative orientation and controversy in order to avoid interruptions in discourse. The need for professional political educators is evident, especially in times when right-wing extremist myths and ideologies are becoming more prominent again. A comprehensive prevention strategy in which political education plays an essential role is crucial to prevent right-wing extremist attitudes.