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USC Frankfurt (Oder) fights resolutely against right-wing extremism!
The European University Viadrina is responding to right-wing extremist incidents at USC with new measures to promote diversity and respect.
USC Frankfurt (Oder) fights resolutely against right-wing extremism!
On May 23, 2025, the University Sports Club (USC) of the European University Viadrina in Frankfurt (Oder) presented its newly designed training rooms, in which posters and flags were hung. This decoration is intended to create a welcoming atmosphere and at the same time exclude right-wing extremist movements from the premises. According to Jovita Anhut, President of the Student Parliament, the redesign is intended to make people with right-wing ideas feel less welcome. Torsten Bergk, USC club chairman, reiterated the rejection of radicalism and emphasized the values of respect, fairness, diversity, democracy and human rights, which play a central role at USC.
The redesign is a direct response to documented right-wing extremist incidents that were made public in December 2023. Reporting of unconstitutional symbols at USC, such as swastikas and SS runes, generated alarming headlines. Students from the “Action Alliance Viadrina” reported these incidents and accused the university of passive behavior. There was also talk of destruction on campus, such as the damage to raised beds with discriminatory symbols.
Reactions and measures
Important measures have already been taken to counter these extremist activities. The USC has revised its club statutes and house rules in order to clearly punish illegal and discriminatory behavior. Certain people have already been excluded from sports. Martin Hampel, who has been on the USC board since the end of October 2023, also announced mandatory information and awareness-raising measures for all employees. These are intended to contribute to the prevention work to combat right-wing extremism, because, according to Hampel, there is a clear need for educational offerings in the USC environment.
The university management also actively exchanged ideas with students and members of the USC. These discussions reaffirmed the common will to take decisive action against right-wing extremist and discriminatory behavior. In total, more than 4,500 students from 108 countries study at the European University Viadrina, with foreign students making up over a third.
Social relevance and future prospects
Combating right-wing extremism is a challenge for society as a whole. Studies show that right-wing extremist attitudes are widespread among the population and that right-wing populist narratives, such as those propagated by the AfD, also contribute to the spread of authoritarian attitudes. The federal government's catalog of measures to combat right-wing extremism by 2024 not only provides for legal changes, but also the promotion of democratic programs and civil society initiatives. Preventive measures and raising awareness among society are essential.
The initiatives also include educational offers for children and young people as well as therapies and support offers for victims of right-wing extremist violence. Mobile advisory teams, such as the joint team from the Brandenburg Institute for Community Advisory Services demos, play a crucial role in providing information and assistance to those affected.
The incidents at the Viadrina are an urgent appeal to take a stand against all forms of discrimination and violence. It remains to be hoped that the current measures will have a long-term impact and serve as a model for other institutions. Everyone involved in the Viadrina is determined to promote an inclusive and respectful community and to declare war on right-wing extremist violence.
European University Viadrina reports that...