Research at the Saxony-Anhalt Police: 'One official said many colleagues liked the AfD'

A sociologist has conducted extensive research within the police force of Saxony-Anhalt, revealing troubling insights into how officers perceive far-right political groups such as the Alternative for Germany (AfD). According to the findings, some members of the police reportedly view the AfD positively, raising concerns over potential institutional antisemitism and the effectiveness of law enforcement in addressing hate crimes. The study was carried out by Franziska Sujeba, a sociologist and researcher at the Hochschule Merseburg. She spent fifteen weeks observing police operations in Saxony-Anhalt, aiming to understand how the force handles cases involving antisemitism. Her research comes amid growing concerns about rising antisemitic incidents in Germany, with approximately 34 cases reported daily, many of which go unaddressed legally. Accessing the police force proved challenging for Sujeba. It took nearly a year to gain entry, requiring networking through professional conferences and specialized organizations. Eventually, she submitted detailed documentation to the state's interior ministry, which approved her request for participatory observation. This approval marked a historic moment, as she became the first individual in Saxony-Anhalt to conduct such research within the police department. Sujeba emphasized that gaining access to the police force was difficult due to its role as a state authority with a monopoly on violence. Criticism of the police is often interpreted as criticism of the state itself, making it a politically sensitive issue. Media scrutiny further complicates matters, highlighting the challenges faced by researchers seeking transparency within law enforcement institutions. During her time embedded with the police, Sujeba noted that officers were cautious about their speech in her presence, likely influenced by past controversies. One notable incident involved the handling of the attack on the synagogue in Halle in 2019. Officers there were criticized for their approach, including assigning numbers to victims, which could have been retraumatizing for Jewish individuals. Another scandal involved a street vendor who was repeatedly labeled as "Jewish" by police and accused of price gouging and money laundering, details only revealed after whistleblowing. With upcoming regional elections in Saxony-Anhalt scheduled for September 6, the possibility of the AfD becoming the strongest party raises concerns about its influence on policing practices. Sujeba expressed worry that limited efforts to raise awareness following the Halle attack might be undermined if the AfD gains more power. She highlighted the need for continued vigilance and sensitivity training among police forces to address these issues effectively. Her research underscores the complex relationship between law enforcement and societal attitudes toward minority groups. As the political landscape shifts, the implications for policing strategies and public trust remain uncertain. The findings highlight the necessity for ongoing dialogue and reform within police departments to ensure they can adequately respond to antisemitism and other forms of discrimination.