BERLIN, July 2, 2025 (WAFA) – The Palestinian Embassy to Berlin on Wednesday submitted a formal protest to the Federal Foreign Office (FFO) over a Federal Minister’s remarks on the Palestinian community in Germany.

The Palestinian Embassy lodged a formal protest with the FFO over the statements made by Karin Prien, German Federal Minister of Education, Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth, in which she described the Palestinian community in Germany as being “thoroughly radicalized by their respective community” and that education is needed to “push radicals to their limits”.

The Embassy strongly condemned and categorically rejected Prien’s remarks, slamming them as racist and irresponsible remarks that are inconsistent with democratic values.

It added that Prien’s remarks not only contribute to incitement to hatred, but also foment the discriminatory and racist rhetoric, subjecting the Palestinian community to a smear campaign and to the risks of community radicalization.

It further stated that these remarks infringe upon the principles of democracy and pluralism, championed by Germany, and are inconsistent with the principles of human rights, freedom, free speech, and peaceful coexistence.

It demanded that Berlin provide a formal clarification, retract the remarks, and take all other necessary measures in response.

It affirmed that the Palestinian community in Germany is an integral and effective part of the fabric of the German society, and has a considerable history of positive contributions to the German society in various fields, including education, economy, culture, and community work.

K.F.