Racist slogans from Göttingen: Police are investigating young people

Racist slogans from Göttingen: Police are investigating young people

A recently published video of young adults recorded during their vacation in Cyprus is causing a stir in Göttingen. This shows hateful slogans and gestures that could potentially result in criminal prosecution. The Göttingen Police has already initiated investigations into sedition and is working closely with the public prosecutor's office. Two sports clubs and a high school were involved in the incident, and one sports club has even announced internal proceedings.

Such incidents show how important it is to combat right-wing extremism and racism. According to one Catalog of measures, which was drawn up by the cabinet committee to combat right-wing extremism and racism, such topics are at the top of the agenda. After the tragic attacks in Halle and Hanau, it is essential to take targeted measures to counter these tendencies.

Racist ideas also among young people

Another worrying incident recently occurred at the Liebigschule in Giessen. Here the police and the public prosecutor's office are investigating the use of racist and anti-Semitic slogans as the graduation motto. The proposal “NSDABI – Burn the Duden”, which was put to a vote by students on an anonymous portal, is particularly frightening. The Graduation committee was forced to close access to this portal immediately after the proposals became known. This school has also clearly distanced itself from the problematic statements.

For society as a whole, it is crucial that educational institutions such as schools take on a role in preventing such thought patterns. This happens not only through distancing, but also through the concrete promotion of democracy and tolerance.

Changing traffic conditions in Göttingen

While discourses about racism and right-wing extremism are ongoing in social and societal areas, there is also news about the traffic situation in the region. The city of Göttingen has launched an ambitious project that provides up to 700 euros if residents sell or deregister their car. The aim is to encourage switching to buses, bicycles or car sharing, which not only benefits the environment but also your own wallet. Interested citizens can take part until the end of the year, although the pilot phase is limited to 100 people.

There is also a change of operator on the RE2 regional train line from Göttingen to Hanover. DB Regio will take over the route from mid-June 2026, although the company has assured that there will be no major changes to the timetable. This is particularly relevant for commuters who rely on this connection. The Pro Bahn passenger association expresses the wish for an improvement in punctuality as soon as possible, but hopes remain dampened for the time being.

Economic developments and challenges

There is a major upheaval in the economy: the automotive supplier Musashi is planning to close its plants in Leinefelde and Hann. Münden. This measure is due to economic unprofitability and affects around 400 employees at the locations who rely on a collective agreement with a location guarantee until 2030. Nevertheless, both sides appear willing to talk to explore possible solutions.

In conclusion, it remains to be said that the social challenges in Göttingen and the surrounding area are diverse. Dealing with racism and right-wing extremist tendencies requires constant vigilance and community engagement, while at the same time economic decisions must be carefully considered. The city has a lot of work to do in this regard - and it is hoped that *everyone* involved will do their part.